Cds Guide Feb21

Guide for the
Classification of Drilling Systems
February 2021
GUIDE FOR THE
CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS

FEBRUARY 2021
American Bureau of Shipping

Incorporated by Act of Legislature of
the State of New York 1862
© 2021 American Bureau of Shipping. All rights reserved.

ABS Plaza
1701 City Plaza Drive
Spring, TX 77389 USA
Foreword (1 February 2021)
This Guide describes criteria to be used for drilling systems, which are approved by the American Bureau
of Shipping (ABS) and built to requirements of recognized codes and standards.
This Guide is to be used in conjunction with other applicable ABS Rules and Guides, codes and standards
as referenced therein, and applicable national regulations.
ABS Classification continues to provide the offshore industry with a pathway toward agreement with
Regulatory Authorities. Any Owner/Operator’s specific request for compliance with applicable
requirements of flag or Coastal State Authorities affecting the drilling systems is to be filed as an
addendum to the Request for Classification.
The first edition of the CDS Guide was published in 1986 to support the drilling regulations developed for
rigs operating in the UK sector of the North Sea. As part of ABS’s commitment to promoting the security
of life and property and preserving the natural environment, ABS has endeavored to continuously update
the Guide by applying the latest industry standards and trends in risk abatement.
The July 2020 edition of the Guide provides clarification on stock/spare equipment and components when
not installed on a drilling unit and gives a process to incorporating them into the drilling unit. This update
also provides clarification on maintenance and overhaul of equipment and components.
The February 2021 edition of the Guide adds a requirement for technical review of the Riser Operations,
Maintenance, and Inspection Manual. It also modifies 3-2/Table 3 to change Tier level from 5 to 4/5 for the
Auxiliary Well Control Equipment [IBOP, Drill Pipe Safety Valves, Drill String Float Valves, Non-return
(NR), Valves in Drill String (IBO)], thus allowing the product quality assurance (PQA) program.
This Guide becomes effective on the first day of the month of publication.
Users are advised to check periodically on the ABS website www.eagle.org to verify that this version of
this Guide is the most current.
We welcome your feedback. Comments or suggestions can be sent electronically by email to

rsd@eagle.org.
ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 ii

GUIDE FOR THE
CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS
CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification............................................ 1
Section 1 Classification......................................................................3
Section 2 Classification Symbols and Notations................................4
Section 3 Rules for Classification...................................................... 6
Section 4 Plans and Design Data to be Submitted for Review..........7
Section 5 Alternatives........................................................................ 8
Section 6 Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify
Alternatives and Novel Features .......................................9
Section 7 Definitions........................................................................ 12
Section 8 Acronyms and Abbreviations........................................... 28
CHAPTER 2 Drilling Systems.................................................................................31

Section 1 General............................................................................ 35
Section 2 Design Specifications...................................................... 38
Section 3 Well Control Systems (WCS)...........................................42
Section 4 Derrick Systems (DSD)....................................................59
Section 5 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC)...................... 69
Section 6 Handling Systems (DSP) ................................................ 73
Section 7 Common Requirements for WCS, DSD, DSC, and
DSP Notations................................................................. 80
CHAPTER 3 Scope of Drilling System and Equipment Approval....................... 88

Section 1 General............................................................................ 90
Section 2 Approval Process.............................................................91
CHAPTER 4 Drilling System Piping.....................................................................128

Section 1 General.......................................................................... 129
Section 2 Design Criteria............................................................... 130
CHAPTER 5 Materials for Drilling Systems and Equipment............................. 136

Section 1 General.......................................................................... 138
ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 iii

Section 2 Materials for Structural and Mechanical Load-
Bearing Components..................................................... 141
Section 3 Materials for Pressure-Retaining/Containing/
Controlling Equipment and Piping Components............ 144
Section 4 Material Manufacturing Considerations......................... 146
Section 5 Material Fabrication Considerations.............................. 148
Section 6 Sealing (Metallic and Non-metallic) Materials................150
Section 7 Documentation and Traceability.................................... 151
Section 8 Nondestructive Testing (NDE)....................................... 152
CHAPTER 6 Welding and Nondestructive Examination.................................... 154

Section 1 General.......................................................................... 156
Section 2 Welding..........................................................................157
Section 3 Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) ..............................159
Section 4 Nondestructive Examination (NDE)............................... 160
Section 5 Extent of Nondestructive Examination on Welds...........162
Section 6 Inspection for Delayed (Hydrogen-Induced) Cracking...164
Section 7 NDT Methods and Acceptance Criteria......................... 165
Section 8 Record Retention...........................................................167
CHAPTER 7 Surveys at Vendor's Plant During Installation and

Commissioning................................................................................ 169
Section 1 General.......................................................................... 170
Section 2 Surveys at Manufacture and During Assembly..............171
Section 3 Onboard Surveys During Installation............................. 177
Section 4 Commissioning Surveys of the Drilling Systems........... 181
CHAPTER 8 Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class............... 183

Section 1 General.......................................................................... 184
Section 2 Surveys Onshore and Issuance of Maintenance
Release Notes............................................................... 187
Section 3 Survey of Drilling Systems.............................................189
Section 4 Alternatives to Periodical Survey................................... 193
Section 5 Modifications, Damage and Repairs..............................194
APPENDIX 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification

of Drilling Systems.......................................................................... 195
Section 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS
Classification of Drilling Systems...................................196
APPENDIX 2 Typical Example of Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance

(MAC)................................................................................................ 201
Section 1 Typical Example of Manufacturer’s Affidavit of
Compliance (MAC)........................................................ 202
ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 iv

APPENDIX 3 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC)...........204
Section 1 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate
(IRC) ............................................................................. 205
APPENDIX 4 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)..................................208

Section 1 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)...................209
APPENDIX 5 Example of Survey Report (SR)...................................................... 211

Section 1 Example of Survey Report (SR) ................................... 212
APPENDIX 6 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN).................................. 214

Section 1 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN).................215
APPENDIX 7 Design Plans and Data - Submittal Requirements........................217

Section 1 Design Plans and Data.................................................. 218
Section 2 Manufacturing Specifications.........................................235
APPENDIX 8 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment....................... 236

Section 1 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment.......... 237
ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 v

CHAPTER 1
Scope and Conditions of Classification
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Classification........................................................................................3
SECTION 2 Classification Symbols and Notations...............................................4

1 ABS Class Notation........................................................................ 4
3 Sub Class Notations....................................................................... 4
5 Systems Not Built Under Survey ................................................... 5
7 Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Systems .................................. 5
FIGURE 1 Notations Application............................................................. 5
SECTION 3 Rules for Classification....................................................................... 6

1 General........................................................................................... 6
3 Application ..................................................................................... 6
SECTION 4 Plans and Design Data to be Submitted for Review.........................7

1 Submission of Plans....................................................................... 7
SECTION 5 Alternatives.......................................................................................... 8
1 General........................................................................................... 8
3 National Standards......................................................................... 8
5 New Technologies and Novel Concepts......................................... 8
SECTION 6 Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify Alternatives

and Novel Features .............................................................................9
1 General........................................................................................... 9
3 Application...................................................................................... 9
5 Other Requirements......................................................................11
SECTION 7 Definitions.......................................................................................... 12
ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 1

SECTION 8 Acronyms and Abbreviations........................................................... 28

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 1
Classification
The requirements for conditions of classification are contained in the separate, generic ABS Rules for
Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). Additional requirements specific to
drilling systems are contained in this Chapter.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 2
Classification Symbols and Notations
1 ABS Class Notation

Drilling systems, related subsystems, equipment, and/or components that have been built, installed and
commissioned to the satisfaction of the Surveyors to the full requirements of this Guide, where approved
by the Committee for service for the specified design environmental conditions, may be classed and
distinguished in the ABS Record by the notation ✠ CDS. For new construction or for existing systems
being brought in CDS class, the full requirements of this Guide apply.
3 Sub Class Notations (1 October 2019)

Upon completion of 1-2/1 above and at the Owner’s request, ✠ CDS can be limited in scope. Following
completion of the requirements to change the class scope, the existing ✠ CDS may be exchanged for one
or more of the following sub-class designations (See also 1-2/Figure 1):
● ✠ CDS(WCS) applies to the classification of the well control system including well control
equipment and associated control systems
● ✠ CDS(DSD) applies to the classification of the derrick systems including drawworks, hoisting and
drilling and motion compensating systems and associated control systems
● ✠ CDS(DSC) applies to the classification of the drilling fluid circulating system and associated
control systems
● ✠ CDS(DSP) applies to the classification of the specialized pipe and tubular handling systems and
associated control systems
Note:
✠ CDS(WCS+DSD) class designation would apply where the Well Control and Derrick systems were classed and ✠
CDS(DSC) and ✠ CDS(DSP) were not selected.

Chapter 1 Scope and Conditions of Classification
Section 2 Classification Symbols and Notations 1-2
FIGURE 1
Notations Application
5 Systems Not Built Under Survey

The symbol "✠" (Maltese-Cross) signifies that the drilling system, subsystems, equipment, and/or
components were built, installed and commissioned to the satisfaction of the Surveyors. Drilling systems,
subsystems, equipment, and/or components that have not been built under ABS survey, but which are
submitted for Classification, will be subjected to special consideration. Where found satisfactory and
thereafter approved by the Committee, they may be classed and distinguished in the Record by the notation
described above, but the symbol "✠" signifying survey during construction will be omitted.
A listing of Classification Symbols and Notations available to the Owners of vessels, offshore drilling and
production units and other marine structures and systems, "List of ABS Notations and Symbols" is
available from the ABS website "http://www.eagle.org".
7 Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Systems

For managed pressure drilling (MPD) systems and associated optional notations refer to the ABS Guide for
Classification and Certification of Managed Pressure Drilling Systems.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 3
Rules for Classification
1 General
This Guide is applicable to optional classification of drilling systems and associated equipment used to
construct wells or support such activities on mobile offshore drilling units, offshore installations, tendering
vessels and other units that are classed with ABS. This Guide is intended for use in conjunction with the
● ABS Rules for Building and Classing Mobile Offshore Units (MOU Rules)
● ABS Rules for Building and Classing Offshore Installations (Offshore Installations/FOI Rules)
● ABS Rules for Building and Classing Floating Production Installations (FPI Rules)
● ABS Rules for Building and Classing Marine Vessel (Marine Vessel Rules)
● ABS Rules for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations (Facilities Rules)
● or other applicable ABS Rules and Guides.
If requested by the Owner, this Guide can also be used as a basis for acceptance or certification under the
requirements of other Administrations. An Owner who requires a drilling system to be evaluated for
compliance with other national regulations should contact ABS.
If requested by the manufacturers, Owner, or designers, ABS can provide approval of individual equipment
or component associated with drilling systems or subsystems in accordance with the requirements of this
Guide where the installation unit may not be classed with ABS.
3 Application
Application of the Rules and Guides is, in general, based on the contract date for construction between the
shipbuilder and the prospective owner. (e.g., Rules which became effective on 1 January 2017 are not
applicable to a drilling unit for which the contract for construction was signed on 30 June 2016.) See also
1-1-4/3 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). For
application of codes and standards, see 2-2/1.1 of this Guide.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 4
Plans and Design Data to be Submitted for Review
1 Submission of Plans
Typical documentation that is required to be submitted for review for drilling systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components for the ABS Classification process is provided in Appendix 7 of this Guide.
The ABS approval process for drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components is provided in
Chapter 3, Section 2. Subsequently, 3-2/Tables 1 through 10 identify the typical drilling systems,
subsystems, equipment, and/or components that are part of the ABS Classification process.
Drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or component-related drawings, calculations and

documentation are required to be submitted to ABS for review by the contracting party or the party
assigned by the contracting party to substantiate that the design of the systems, subsystems, equipment
and/or components are in compliance with this Guide and applicable codes or standards as listed in this
Guide.
Upon satisfactory completion of ABS review of the submitted design plans and data, ABS will issue an
approval letter and/or an Independent Review Certificate (IRC), as specified in 3-2/7.1. This letter or
certificate, in conjunction with ABS-approved documentation, will be used and referenced during surveys.
Subsequently, the Surveyor will issue appropriate survey reports and Certificate of Conformity (COC) as
specified in 3-2/7.1.
Upon satisfactory completion of all of the required engineering design review and survey processes
(inspection, testing, installation and commissioning), ABS may issue the Classification Certificate to the
operating unit, including the Class notation ✠ CDS (abbreviation for Classed Drilling System).

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 5
Alternatives
1 General
The Committee is willing to consider alternative arrangements and designs which can be shown, through
either satisfactory service experience or a systematic analysis based on sound engineering principles, to
meet the overall safety, serviceability and design standards of the applicable Rules and Guides.
3 National Standards
The Committee will consider special arrangements or design of drilling systems and their equipment which
can be shown to comply with standards recognized in the country provided that the proposed standards are
not less effective.
When alternate standards are proposed, comparative analyses are to be provided to demonstrate equivalent
level of safety to the recognized standards as listed in this Guide and to be performed in accordance with
this Chapter.
5 New Technologies and Novel Concepts

Drilling systems which involve new technologies or contain novel design features to which the provisions
of this Guide are not directly applicable may be classed, when approved by the Committee, on the basis
that this Guide, insofar as applicable, has been complied with and that special consideration has been given
to these aspects, based on the best information available at that time. The ABS Guidance Notes on
Qualifying New Technologies and the ABS Guidance Notes on Review and Approval of Novel Concepts
provide a methodology for approval of such designs and their incorporation on an asset.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 6
Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify Alternatives and Novel
Features
1 General
ABS will consider the application of risk evaluations for alternative arrangements and novel features in the
design of the drilling system, subsystems, equipment or components. Risk evaluations for the justification
of alternative arrangements or novel features may be applicable either to the drilling system as a whole, or
to individual systems, subsystems, equipment or components. Any alternatives to the requirements of this
Guide may be specially considered by ABS on the basis of a risk assessment submitted for review.
i) In case of such alternatives, ABS approval will be contingent upon a demonstration of fitness for
purpose and equivalent level of safety in accordance with the principles of ABS Guides and Rules,
as well as recognized codes and standards.
ii) Risk acceptance criteria are to be developed in line with the principles of the ABS Rules and will
be subject to ABS approval. In instances where a direct alternative recognized code or standard is
used, ABS verification of compliance with the standard will be considered to demonstrate
equivalent level of safety.
iii) The ABS Guidance Notes on Risk Assessment Applications for the Marine and Offshore Industries
provides an overview of risk assessment techniques and additional information.
iv) For risk based inspection techniques refer to 8-4/5 of this Guide.
3 Application
When this optional risk assessment is applied at the specific request of the contracting party, designer or
manufacturer, all hazards that may affect the drilling system or any of its subsystems, equipment or
components are to be identified.
i) A systematic process is to be applied to identify situations where a combination or sequence of

events could lead to undesirable consequences (property damage, personnel safety and
environmental damage), with consideration given to all reasonably foreseeable causes.
ii) As appropriate, account must be given to hazards outside the bounds of the system under
consideration. Such account is to include incidents relating to remote hazards impacting on or
being influenced by the system under consideration.
iii) Portions of the installation not included in the risk assessment are to comply with the applicable
parts of the ABS Rules and Guides.

Section 6 Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify Alternatives and Novel Features 1-6
iv) The objective of the hazard identification is to identify areas of the design that may require the
implementation of further risk control options in order to reduce the risk to an acceptable level.
v) The identified risk control options (prevention and mitigation measures) deemed necessary to be
implemented are to be considered part of the design basis of the drilling system.
vi) At minimum, HAZID workshop is to identify potential hazardous situations and verify that
adequate risk control measures are provided to address the following:
● Dropped objects/loads
● Release of hydrocarbons
● Release of H2S, CO2, etc.
● Release of toxic chemicals
● Fire and explosion
● Pollution to the sea
● Loss of well control/blowouts
● Release of pressurized fluids
● Loss of system function
● Loss of station-keeping
● Loss of stability/buoyancy
● Structural damage
● Damage of subsea equipment
● Collisions
● Injury due to interface with machinery
● Blackout
● Environmental events
● Mechanical Failure
● Electrical Failure
● Domino effects or impairment of emergency response equipment and/or activities (Not to be
considered on its own, but in conjunction with each hazardous event)
● Loss of purged air
● Loss/failure at mooring
● Helicopter crash
The following design principals are to be verified for the integrated drilling plant HAZID
study:
● Safety of personnel and operation
● Separation of nonhazardous areas from classified hazardous areas
● Separation of fuel and ignition source as far as practical
● Minimizing probability of ignition
● Minimizing likelihood of uncontrollable releases of hydrocarbon
● Minimizing spread of flammable liquids and gases

Section 6 Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify Alternatives and Novel Features 1-6
● Minimizing consequences of fire and explosions

● Preventing fire escalation and equipment damage
● Providing for adequate arrangements for escape and evacuation
● Facilitating effective emergency response
● Minimizing dropped object hazards to personnel, equipment (on installation and subsea) and
structure
● Protection of critical systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components from damage during
drilling operation, (such as: electrical cables, well control equipment, control and shutdown
systems, fire/gas detection and fire-fighting equipment arrangement, exhaust ducting and air
intake system)
● Equipment arrangements provide access for inspection and servicing and safe means of egress
from all machinery spaces
The ABS Guidance Notes on Risk Assessment Applications for the Marine and Offshore Industries contain
detailed procedures for the Risk Evaluation Process for classification of Alternative Arrangements and
Novel Features. Section 2 of those Guidance Notes contains a description of the most common hazard
identification techniques. In addition, 3/1.5 of those Guidance Notes provides an overview of how to
assemble an appropriate risk assessment team.
When the risk assessment technique is considered, ABS’ participation in the hazard identification
meeting(s) is recommended. Tangible benefits can be derived by the participation of an ABS representative
who will later be directly involved in reviewing the designs for ABS Classification.
5 Other Requirements
Where it is intended that risk-based techniques are used as a basis for compliance with flag and coastal
State requirements, the contracting party is directed to contact the Administration, either directly or
through ABS, to obtain an understanding as to the extent to which the Administration is prepared to
consider alternatives to such requirements. The Administration may require additional hazards to be
considered and safety functions.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 7
Definitions
The following definitions are provided to clarify the use of certain terms in the context of this Guide:
Accumulator: A pressure vessel charged with high pressure gas and used to store hydraulic energy under
pressure.
Acoustic Control Systems: Acoustic signal transmission may be used as an emergency backup means for
controlling critical BOP stack functions, such as pipe ram preventers, shear ram preventer and marine
drilling riser connector including LMRP. The acoustic control system includes a surface electronics
package, acoustic pod transponder, subsea electronic package and a subsea electro-hydraulic package.
Acoustic Pod Transponder: Device which receives acoustic signals from the surface and provides
command signals to the subsea BOP control system.
Actuator: A mechanical component that is responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism such as for
the remote or automatic operation of a valve or choke.
Annular Blowout Preventer: Blowout preventer that uses a shaped elastomeric sealing element to seal the
space between the tubular and the wellbore or an open hole.
Autoshear System: A system that is designed to automatically shut-in the wellbore in the event of a
disconnection of the LMRP. When the autoshear is armed, disconnect of the LMRP closes the shear ram on
BOP stack.
Auxiliary Line: A conduit (excluding choke and kill lines) attached to the outside of the drilling riser main
tube (e.g., hydraulic supply line, buoyancy control line, mud boost line).
Backup: An element or system that is intended to be used only in the event that the primary element or
system is nonfunctional.
Backup Power: Secondary power source equal to or greater than the power required for operation from the
primary power source.
Bell Nipple: A piece of pipe, with inside diameter equal to or greater than the blowout preventer bore,
connected to the top of the blowout preventer or marine riser with a side outlet to direct the drilling fluid
returns to the shale shaker pit.
Blind Rams: See "Rams"

Section 7 Definitions 1-7
Blind-shear Rams: See "Rams"
Blowout: An uncontrolled flow of well fluids/gas and/or formation fluids/gas from the wellbore to the
surface or into lower pressured subsurface zones (underground blowout).
Blowout Preventer Equipment:
Blow Out Preventer: The equipment installed at the wellhead or wellhead assemblies to contain wellbore
fluids either in the annular space between the casing and tubulars or in an open hole during drilling,
completion and testing operations.
BOP Handling Crane: Typically a bridge or gantry-type crane used to move BOP from storage location to
BOP transporter/skidder location.
BOP Operating and Control System: System of pumps, valves, accumulators, fluid storage and mixing
equipment, manifold, piping, hoses, electrical systems, software and control panels and other items
necessary to hydraulically operate the BOP equipment.
BOP Stack Assembly: The complete assembly of well control equipment, including preventers, spools,
valves, and nipples connected to the top of the wellhead or wellhead assemblies and related structural stack
frames.
BOP Seafixing: Mechanism to secure the BOP onboard the drilling unit.
BOP Stack Frame: Steel frame to which the lower stack is mounted for handling and mating with LMRP.
Also serves as a support structure to mount various subsea equipment, such as subsea accumulators and
control pods.
BOP Transporter/Skidder: Mechanism to position the BOP for deployment, retrieval or storage.
Bolting: Threaded fasteners including all-thread studs, tap-end studs, double-ended studs, headed bolts, cap
screws, screws, and nuts.
Buffer Chamber: A targeted, horizontal or vertical, cylindrical tank that changes the direction of fluid flow
downstream of the choke and serves as a flow director to the flare line, gas buster or mud-gas separator.
Bulk Storage: Tanks that are designed for storage of bulk materials for drilling fluid and cement mixing
(barite, bentonite, cement, etc.).
Buoyancy Equipment: Devices added to riser joints to reduce their weight, thereby reducing riser top
tension requirements.
Burner Boom: Boom which extends over the deck edge to flare hydrocarbon from kick circulation or well
test operations.
Casing Pressure: The pressure existing at the surface on the casing side of the drill string/annulus flow
system.
Casing Stabbing Board: Folding platform located in the derrick which positions the stabbing hand (pipe
stabber) while running casing.
Catwalk: Elongated platform adjacent to the rig floor where pipe is laid out and lifted into the derrick. The
catwalk is connected to the rig floor by a pipe ramp.
Cementing Manifold: Used to direct high pressure cement through the cement standpipe.

Cement Pump: High pressure positive-displacement-type pump used for cementing operations, often
connected to the kill line for emergency kill operations, usually smaller capacity than mud pump.
Choke: A device with either a fixed or variable orifice used to control the rate of flow of liquids and/or gas.
Choke/Kill Line: The high-pressure piping (flexible lines, rigid piping, valves, connectors, fittings, etc.)
that allows fluids to be pumped into or removed from the well with the BOPs closed.
Choke/Kill Line Valve: The valve(s) connected to and a part of the BOP stack that allows fluids flow to the
choke manifold.
Choke/Kill Manifold: An assembly of valves, chokes, gauges, and piping components through which
drilling fluid is circulated when the blowout preventer is closed to control the pressure encountered during
a kick.
Circulation Head: Accessory attached to the top of the tubulars to form a connection with the mud system
to permit circulation of drilling mud.
Clamp Connection: A pressure sealing device used to join two items without using conventional bolted
flange joints. The two items to be sealed are prepared with clamp hubs. These hubs are held together by a
clamp containing a minimum of four bolts.
Classified Area: A location in which flammable gases or vapors are or may be present in the air in
quantities sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures (see the ABS MOU Rules, API 500 or API
505 for additional details).
Closure Bolting: Threaded fasteners used to assemble or join well-bore pressure-containing parts including
end and outlet connections. Examples include flange bolting, bonnet bolting, bolting on end connections
on BOPs, bolting on hub clamps and ram door bolting.
Certificate of Conformity (COC): A Certificate of Conformity issued by the attending Surveyor in

accordance with the provisions of this Guide.
Collision Avoidance Systems: Systems and/or devices that prevent the collision of power actuated
equipment with personnel, equipment and fixed structures during drilling operations.
Computer-Based System: A system of one or more microprocessors, associated software, peripherals and
interfaces.
Contracting Party: The commercial entity that enters into a Classification agreement with ABS.
Control Panel/Console: An enclosure displaying an array of switches, push buttons, lights and/or valves
and various pressure gauges or meters to control or monitor functions. These panels can be pneumatic,
electric or hydraulic powered.
Control Manifold: An assembly of valves and piping to control the flow of hydraulic fluid to operate the
various components of systems, equipment or components.
Control Panel, Remote: A panel containing a series of controls that will operate the valves on the control
manifold from a remote point.
Control Pod: An assembly of subsea valves and regulators that when activated from the surface will direct
hydraulic fluid through special apertures to operate the BOP equipment.
Control Stations: Spaces containing the following, as applicable:
● Radio or main navigation equipment

● Central process control rooms

● Drilling and hoisting control systems
● Dynamically positioning control system
● Centralized ballast control
● Fire control equipment and fire recording
● Fire extinguishing system serving various locations
● Emergency source of power
● CO2 bottle room
Control Signal: The signal (hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, etc.) applied to the device that makes
corrective changes in a controlled process or machine.
Control Systems: An assembly of devices interconnected or coordinated to generate or convey the

command(s) and maintain a desired output. A control system may be comprised of hydraulic, pneumatic,
electrical sources, or combinations thereof with control signals.
Critical Component: Any structural/mechanical component in a Critical Load Path.
Critical Load Path: A path in an assembly of mechanical components, along which force/load is
transferred from one component to its connected component(s), failure of any of which will compromise
the load carrying capacity of the assembly under intended operational conditions.
Critical Well Control Equipment: Equipment items that are issued IRCs and COCs per 3-2/Table 3.
Criticality Analysis: provides relative measures of significance of the effects of a failure mode as well as
the significance of an entire piece of equipment or system, on defined performance requirements. It is a
tool used to prioritize and minimize the effects of critical failures early in the design.
Criticality Ranking: Criticality rankings based on risk use a combination of the consequence (severity) of
the failure and the anticipated likelihood of the consequence occurring. When used as part of a risk
analysis study (e.g., FMECA) will highlight failure modes with high probability of occurrence and severity
of consequences, allowing corrective actions to be implemented where they will produce the greatest
impact.
Crown: Upper section of the derrick.
Crown Block: Assembly of sheaves mounted at the derrick top (crown) through which the drilling line is
reeved.
Deadline Anchor: Device to securely fasten one end of drill line to the drill floor or derrick structure.
Deadman System: A system that is designed to automatically close the wellbore in the event of a
simultaneous absence of hydraulic supply and signal (control and communication) transmission capacity in
both subsea control pods.
Degasser: Device used to remove entrained gas from a drilling fluid in normal well circulation.
Desander: Centrifugal device for removing sand from drilling fluid.
Desilter: Centrifugal device used for removing silt from drilling fluid.
Derrick (Mast): Main load-bearing structure in drilling unit used as support structure for various
equipment associated with hoisting, lifting, handling, etc.

Designer/Integrator: The group responsible for the design and integration of the overall functional system
which includes components and interconnecting piping and controls as applicable.
Design Pressure: The pressure used in the design of pressure-retaining equipment or piping systems for the
purpose of determining the minimum permissible thickness or physical characteristics of the different parts
of the pressure-retaining equipment or piping systems. When applicable, static head and other external
loads (e.g., bending, torsional, tension, compression, temperature gradient, etc.) are to be added to the
design pressure to determine the thickness of any specific part of the pressure-retaining equipment or
piping systems.
Design Validation, Testing: Process of proving a design by testing to demonstrate conformity of the
product to design requirements. Design validation includes one or more of the following:
● Prototype tests;
● Functional and/or operational tests of production products;
● Tests specified by industry standards and/or regulatory requirements;
● Field performance tests and reviews.
Diverter Equipment:
Diverter: A device attached to the wellhead or marine drilling riser to control the upward flow of well
fluids and direct flow into a line away from the rig floor.
Diverter Control System: The assemblage of pumps, accumulator bottles, manifolds, control panel, valves,
lines, etc., used to operate the diverter system.
Diverter System: The assemblage of an annular sealing device, flow control means, vent system
components, and control system that facilitates closure of the upward flow path of well fluids and opening
of the vent to atmosphere.
Diverter Vent Line/Diverter Piping: The conduit which directs the flow of gas and wellbore fluids away
from the drill floor to the atmosphere.
Drape Hoses: A flexible line connecting a choke, kill, and auxiliary line terminal fitting on the telescopic
joint to the appropriate piping on the rig structure.
Drawworks: Large winch typically located on the drill floor used to raise and lower the drill string, top
drive assembly by taking in or paying out the drilling line through the crown block and traveling block.
Drift-off: An unintended lateral move of a dynamically positioned vessel off of its intended location
relative to the wellhead, generally caused by loss of station keeping control or propulsion.
Drill Floor Substructure: The foundation structure(s) on which the derrick, rotary table, drawworks, and
other drilling equipment are supported.
Drill Pipe Safety Valve: A full-opening valve located on the rig floor with threads to match the drill pipe
connections or other tubulars. The valve is used to close off the drill pipe to prevent flow.
Driller’s Cabin: An enclosed space on the drill floor that provides clear view for the driller to monitor and
control drilling activities.
Drilling Spool: Pressure containing piece of equipment having end connections, and outlets used below or
between drill-through equipment.

Dual Gradient Drilling (DGD): A drilling process that creates multiple pressure gradients to manage the
annular pressure profile by either increasing or decreasing annular pressure.
Dump Tank: Calibrated tank used to measure the volume of a liquid, may be drilling mud or reservoir
fluids.
Elevator, Drilling: Manually or hydraulically/pneumatically operated hinged clamp-type device used to

grasp drill pipe or casing for lifting.
Engineering Changes:
Major Engineering Change: A change that affects form, fit, or function of the component or system that
could include, but not necessarily be limited to, a change in items in the load path (main or operational
load path), pressure boundary, a change in materials, testing requirements, operational characteristics, or
updates of the rules that requires further engineering evaluation.
Minor Engineering Change: A change that does not have an impact on the design, validation, and/or
testing requirements with no effect on the form, fit, or function of a component or system that can be
accepted by attending Surveyor.
Equipment Skids: Structural support assemblies used for different purposes and segregated as follows:
Permanently installed: Skid assemblies supporting drilling equipment permanently installed on the rig.
Portable: Skid assemblies supporting drilling equipment that are not permanently affixed and are moved
(together with the associated installed equipment) for use during drilling operations.
Shipping: Skid assemblies used solely for the purpose of the one way transfer of the equipment for
permanent installation on board.
Escape Routes: Designated path used by personnel to evade an immediate danger and ultimately leads to a
temporary refuge or muster station.
Fail-safe: An engineering design principle wherein a system, equipment or component is designed to

inherently respond to a specific type of failure or malfunction in such a manner that there is no or minimal
impact on the safety of people, asset and the environment.
Finger Board: A rack located in the derrick that supports the top of the stands of pipe stacked in the
derrick.
Flammable Fluid: Any fluid, regardless of its flash point, capable of fueling a fire. Examples are diesel
fuel, hydraulic oil (oil-based), lubricating oil, crude oil, or hydrocarbons.
Flash Point: The minimum temperature at which a combustible liquid gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface of the liquid or within the vessel used,
as determined by the test procedure and apparatus specified in NFPA 30.
Flex/Ball Joint: A steel and elastomer assembly installed directly above the subsea BOP stack and at the
top of the telescopic riser joint (slip joint) having central through-passage equal to or greater in diameter
than the riser bore, positioned to permit relative angular movement of the riser string to reduce local
bending stresses due to vessel motions and environmental forces.
Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses: Conduits that can accommodate the relative motion and/or vibration
encountered on the drilling facility and are used to transfer fluids (mud, cement, hydraulic fluids, etc.).
Typical uses for flexible lines and/or hydraulic hoses within the drilling facility are:
● Rotary and vibratory hoses

● Cementing hoses
● Choke and kill flexible lines, and auxiliary lines (drapes and jumpers)
● Hydraulic hoses for control functions and operations
Fluid Cushion: A provision to dampen the effects of high pressure fluid flow by use of a blind flanged
machined with a fluid cushion bore.
FMEA (Failure Modes and Effects Analysis): A systematic process to identify potential failures to fulfill
the intended function, to identify possible failure causes so the causes can be eliminated or minimized, and
to locate the failure impacts so the impacts can be reduced to acceptable levels.
FMECA (Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis): An extension of the FMEA that includes a
criticality assessment - an explicit estimation of the severity of the consequences of the failure or a
combination of the likelihood of the failure and severity of the consequences.
FMEA/FMECA Validation: Validation program developed to test when necessary the conclusions of the
FMEA or to establish conclusively the effects of failure modes that the FMEA desktop exercise had a high
degree of uncertainty about.
FMEA Critical Results: Critical Results are defined as those areas of a mechanical or control system
identified from the FMEA as having mitigating barrier(s) to prevent the occurrence of a hazardous
situation. These are considered as part of the FMEA Validation program to validate that upon the specified
failure, a minimum of one mitigating barrier performs as intended in order to prevent occurrence of a
hazardous situation. Examples of such mitigating barriers are hydraulic load holding valves, alarms,
sensors, etc.
FMEA Selected Results: Those results for which there is reasonable uncertainty or disagreement of the
FMEA assumptions. During the FMEA, uncertain assessments results are to be identified and discussed
with the designer at time of Design Review for resolution. If a resolution is not achieved, these items
require testing in the Validation program. Examples of areas where inadequate data may be available to
perform definitive analysis include the behavior of interlocks that may inhibit operation of essential
systems.
Form, Fit and Function:
Form: The shape, size, dimensions, material, design specification parameters that uniquely distinguish a
part.
Fit: The ability of a part to physically interface with, connect to, or become an integral part of another part.
Function: The action or actions that a part is designed to perform per the applicable design specifications.
Gimbal: Support for the riser spider which allows some angular movement of the spider and riser relative
to the rig support structure.
Gooseneck: Curved connection between the rotary hose and the swivel or top drive.
Hazardous Area: See "Classified Areas".
HAZID (Hazard Identification study): A process to find, list and characterize hazards. This is the first step
to risk assessments.
HAZOP (Hazard and Operability study): A method of identifying hazards that might affect the safety and
operability of a system process using process performance metrics (example: flow/no flow, high/low
pressure, rotation/no rotation). A HAZOP can be considered a HAZID tool.

Heave: Vessel motion in the vertical direction due to marine environment.
High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT): Wells with a potential pressure greater than 103.43 MPa
(15,000 psi) at the wellhead, and/or with a potential reservoir temperature of greater than 177°C (350°F).
Hook, Drilling: Hook-shaped lifting device attached to the traveling block from which the swivel (or top
drive) is suspended.
Horizontal to Vertical Equipment: Equipment to move tubulars from/to horizontal position to/from vertical
position for stand building or breaking, and tubulars operations.
Hydraulic connector: A mechanical connector that is activated hydraulically and connects the BOP stack
to the wellhead or the LMRP to the BOP stack.
Hydraulic Cylinder: Mechanical device used to convert hydraulic fluid pressure to linear action.
Hydraulic Hoses: Conduits that can accommodate the relative motion, and/or vibration encountered on a
drilling facility and are used to transfer fluid for hydraulic system functions.
Hydraulic Power Unit (HPU): Skid-mounted systems used to provide hydraulic power, usually comprised
of a hydraulic fluid reservoir, filters, hydraulic pump, motor and control.
Hydrocarbon: A compound of hydrogen and carbon, such as any of those that are the chief components of
petroleum and natural gas.
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S): A highly toxic, flammable, corrosive gas sometimes encountered in hydrocarbon-
bearing formations.
Hydrogen Sulfide (Sour) Service: Refers to equipment designed to resist corrosion and hydrogen
embrittlement caused by exposure to hydrogen sulfide.
Ignitable Mixture: A mixture that is within the flammable range (between the upper and lower limits) and
is therefore capable of propagation of flame away from the source of ignition.
Inside Blowout Preventer (IBOP): A valve installed in drill string to prevent a blowout inside the drill
string. Flow is possible only downward, allowing mud to be pumped in but preventing any flow back up
the drill string.
Integrated Drilling System: Collective set of systems, subsystems and equipment related to Well Control
Systems (WCS), Derrick Systems (DSD), Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC) and Pipe/Tubular
Handling Systems (DSP) including associated interfaces with drilling support systems, utilities and marine
systems.
Iron Roughneck/ Power Tongs: Tool with automated combination of spinning and torqueing for make-up
or break-down of drill string pipes during drilling operation.
Jumper Line: A flexible section of choke, kill, or auxiliary line that provides a continuous flow around a
flex/ball joint while accommodating the angular motion at the flex/ball joint.
Kelly Equipment: The uppermost component of the drill string; the kelly is an extra-heavy joint of pipe
with flat or fluted sides that is free to move vertically through a "kelly bushing" in the rotary table; the
kelly bushing imparts torque to the kelly and thereby the drill string is rotated.
Kelly Bushing: Device which imparts torque to the kelly from the master bushing and permits vertical
movement of the kelly.

Kelly Cock: A valve immediately above the kelly that can be closed to confine pressures inside the drill
string.
Kelly Spinner: Pneumatically-operated device mounted to the top of the kelly used to spin up the kelly for
making and breaking connections on a rotary table-type rig.
Kelly Valve, Lower: A full-opening/full-closing valve installed immediately below the kelly, with outside
diameter equal to the tool joint outside diameter.
Kick: Influx of water, gas, oil or other formation fluid into wellbore.
Kick Out: Terminal fittings on the lower riser adapter that serve to connect the riser choke, kill and
auxiliary lines to the corresponding flexible hoses or flex loops on the BOP stack.
Kill: In drilling/well servicing, to prevent a threatened blowout by taking suitable preventative measures
(e.g., to shut in well with blowout preventer, circulate kick out, and increase weight of drilling/completion/
workover fluid).
Kill Line: The high-pressure piping (flexible lines, rigid piping, valves, connectors, fittings, etc.) between
the pumps (cement or mud pumps) and BOP outlets or wellhead outlets.
Kill Unit: A unit to pump kill mud to kill the well.
Links, Drilling: Strong rods which connect the drilling elevators to the hook and allow movement for the
elevator to be pushed out of the way when not in use.
Loose Gear: Off-the-shelf equipment including, but not limited to, shackles, chain, hooks, connecting
links, turnbuckles, binders, sheave blocks, and swivels used in an assembly to suspend, secure, or lift a
load.
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) equipment:
LMRP: Part of the blowout preventer stack assembly; usually contains LMRP connector, one or more
annular-type preventers, lower flex joint, riser adapter, and MUX control pods.
LMRP Connector: Hydraulic connector used to securely latch the LMRP to the BOP stack.
LMRP Frame: Structural frame which is used for handling of the LMRP and integration with the BOP
stack. It also serves as a support structure to mount various subsea equipment such as subsea accumulators
and control pods.
MAC (Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance): A document certified by the manufacturer that the
specified product meets the required specifications. Also referred to as a Manufacturers Certificate of
Compliance (MCOC).
Machinery Spaces of Category A: All spaces which contain internal combustion-type machinery used
either:
● For main propulsion; or

● For other purposes where such machinery has in the aggregate a total power of not less than 375 kW;
or
● Which contain any oil-fired boiler or oil fuel unit; and trunks to such spaces.
Machinery Spaces (other than Category A): Other Machinery Spaces: Spaces, including trunks to such
spaces, containing propulsion machinery, boilers, oil fuel units, steam and internal combustion engines,
generators and major electrical machinery (SCR, MCC and switchgear); oil filling station; refrigerating,

ventilation and air-conditioning machinery with motors having an aggregate capacity greater than 7.5 kW
(10 hp); and similar spaces, but are not machinery spaces of Category A.
Manifold: An accessory system of piping to a main piping system (or another conductor) that serves to
divide a flow into several parts, to combine several flows into one, or to reroute a flow to any one of
several possible destinations.
Manipulator Arm: Mechanism to guide tubulars from/to well center to/from the V-door.
Marine Drilling Riser System: The extension of the well bore from the subsea BOP stack to the floating
drilling vessel which provides for fluid returns to the drilling vessel, supports the choke, kill, and control
lines, booster lines, auxiliary lines (for specialized needs including riser boost, mud return for a dual
gradient drilling program and glycol injection to control hydrate formation), guides tools into the well, and
serves as a running string for the BOP stack.
Master Bushing: Device which imparts torque from the rotary table to the kelly bushing and accepts the
slips.
Maximum Allowable Working (Operating) Pressure (MAWP) or Rated Working Pressure (RWP): The
maximum internal pressure equipment or system is designed to operate or work and to contain and/or
control the pressure.
MCOC: See MAC.
Mechanical Load-bearing Component: Components transmitting, resisting, or converting loads.
Primary Mechanical Load-bearing Component: A path in an assembly of mechanical components, along

which force/load is transferred from one component to its connected component(s), failure of any of which
will compromise the load carrying capacity of the assembly under operational conditions.
Minimum Design Service Temperature (MDST): The lowest predictable metal temperature occurring
during normal operation including start-up, shut-down and ambient situation is to be used.
Mitigating Barriers: Those areas of a mechanical or control system which have barrier(s) to prevent the
occurrence of a hazardous situation. The FMEA/FMECA Validation testing is to validate that upon the
specified failure, a minimum of one mitigating barrier performs as intended in order to prevent occurrence
of a hazardous situation. Examples of such mitigating barriers are hydraulic load holding valves, alarms,
sensors, etc.
Monkey Board: Elevated platform on the derrick structure for the support of the derrickman to place and/or
withdraw tubulars into the finger board.
Mud Agitator: Device to mix, or maintain mixture of, drilling mud in the mud pits.
Mud Boost Line: An auxiliary line which provides supplementary fluid supply from the surface and injects
it into the riser at the LMRP to assist in the circulation of drill cuttings up the marine drilling riser, when
required.
Mud-Gas Separator (Poor Boy Degasser): A vessel for removing free gas from the drilling fluid returns,
generally used when circulating a gas kick out of the well.
Mud Pit Level Indicator: An indicator system that monitors and reports the level of mud in the pits. Serves
as an indicator of losses and well kicks. Sometimes referred to a PVT (Pit Volume Totalizer).
Mud Pump: Large high-pressure pump used to circulate drilling fluid, usually positive-displacement type.

Multiplex (MUX) Control System: A system utilizing electrical or optical conductors in an armored subsea
umbilical cable such that, on each conductor, multiple distinct functions are independently operated by
dedicated serialized coded commands.
New Technology: Any design (material, component, equipment or system), process or procedure which
does not have prior in-service experience, and/or any Classification Rules, Statutory Regulations or
industry standards that are directly applicable. It is possible to categorize the type of "novelty" in one of
four categories:
i) Existing design/process/procedures challenging the present boundaries/envelope of current

offshore or marine applications
ii) Existing design/process/procedures in new or novel applications
iii) New or novel design/process/procedures in existing applications
iv) New or novel design/process/procedures in new or novel applications.
Non-conformance:
Major Non-conformance: A condition that affects form, fit or function.
Minor Non-conformance: A condition that does not affect form, fit or function.
Nonhazardous Areas (Unclassified Locations): Locations determined to be neither "hazardous areas" nor
"classified areas" (see Classified Area" for definition).
Novel Concept: An offshore drilling unit that with the inclusion of new technologies, the service scope,
functional capability, and/or risk profile is appreciably altered.
Operating Conditions: A set of conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rates, composition, loads, etc.)
chosen for normal operation of a system, subsystem, equipment or component.
Pin: Male member of a riser coupling or a choke, kill, or auxiliary line stab assembly
Pipe Rams: See "Rams"
Pipe Racking Mechanism: Automated equipment to place and/or withdraw tubular strands to/from the
setback are
Power Slips: Automated slips typically controlled by the driller, usually hydraulically or pneumatically
operated.
Power Subs: A power sub is a device which moves with a hoisting system and is designed to provide
rotary power to the top of the tubular/string. It attaches to the bottom of the rotary swivel, but does not
include a rotary seal or bearing for supporting the tubular/string.
Power Swivels: A power swivel is a device which moves with a hoisting system and is designed to provide
rotary power to the top of the tubular/string. It replaces the rotary swivel and includes a rotary seal and
bearing for supporting the tubular/string weight.
Pressure Containing Equipment: Equipment/parts exposed to wellbore fluid/pressurized fluid whose

failure to function as intended would result in a release of wellbore fluid/pressurized fluid to the
environment.
Pressure Controlling Equipment: Equipment/parts intended to regulate the movement of wellbore/

pressurized fluids.

Pressure Retaining Equipment: Equipment/parts not exposed to the wellbore/pressurized fluids whose
failure to function as intended will result in a release of wellbore fluid to the environment.
Primary Load Bearing: Load bearing components in the critical load path.
Primary Structural Weld: Primary structure welds which are single point failure, with no redundancy, and
are considered critical by the designer, will require 100% Volumetric NDE plus 100% Surface NDE
Product Design Assessment (PDA): A certificate issued by ABS upon completion of ABS Engineering
plan review (to the manufacturer’s requested standards and/or ABS Rules and Guides) and survey of
prototype testing (as applicable to the product).
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC): An industrial computer control system that continuously monitors
the state of input devices and makes decisions based upon a custom program to control the state of output
devices.
Prototype Testing: Design validation testing of equipment designs in accordance with the applicable design
standard.
Pulsation Dampeners: Chambered device used to dampen pressure pulsations in a fluid flow.
Pup Joint: A shorter-than-standard-length riser joint, tool joint, or drill pipe.
Rams: Mechanical device used for closing, shearing and sealing component of a blowout preventer. One of
three types – blind, shear, or pipe – may be installed in several preventers mounted in a stack on top of the
wellbore.
Blind Rams: Blind ram ends are not intended to seal against any drill pipe or casing. The rams seal against
each other to effectively close the hole.
Shear Rams:
Shear Rams (non-sealing): Closing component in a ram blowout preventer that is capable of shearing or
cutting certain tubulars but, does not seal
Blind-shear Rams: Closing and sealing component in a ram blowout preventer that first shears the tubular
in the wellbore and then seals off the bore or acts as a blind ram if there is no tubular in the wellbore
Pipe Ram is a sealing component with an indentation and packing for drill pipe, drill collars or casing that
closes the annular space between the pipe and the blowout preventer or wellhead. Separate rams are
necessary for each size (outside diameter) pipe in use. Pipe rams can include:
Fixed Bore Pipe Ram: Closing and sealing component in a ram blowout preventer that is capable of sealing
only specified tubular size.
Variable Bore Pipe Ram: Closing and sealing component in a ram blowout preventer that is capable of
sealing on a range of tubular sizes.
Rated Load: The load specified by the manufacturer that the machine/structure is rated to carry. Maximum
operating load, both static and dynamic, to be applied to the equipment
Rated Setback Load: The maximum weight of tubular goods which can be supported by the substructure in
the setback area.
Rated Working Pressure (RWP) or Maximum Allowable Working (Operating) Pressure (MAWP): The
maximum internal pressure the equipment or system is designed to operate or work and to contain and/or
control the pressure.

Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV): An unmanned vehicle for offshore subsea use.
Reels (MUX, Hotline): Large spool and winch system used to store, deploy, and retrieve flexible lines.
Riser Adapter: Crossover between riser and flex/ball joint.
Riser Chute: To guide risers from vertical position at set back area to drill-floor.
Riser Feeding Machine: A machine designed for horizontal transportation of casing, riser/slip joint and
material from pipe deck to drill floor and vice versa.
Riser Flood Valve Joint: A special riser joint having a valve which allows the riser annulus to be opened to
the sea based on differential pressure.
Riser Joint: A section of riser main tube having flanged connector (or equivalent ) ends fitted with a box
and pin and including choke, kill and (optional) auxiliary lines, booster lines, and their support brackets.
Riser Recoil System: A means of limiting the upward acceleration of the riser for unplanned disconnect
(EDS).
Riser Running/Handling Tool: A device that joins to the upper end of a riser joint to permit the lifting and
lowering of the joint and the assembled riser string in the derrick by the elevators.
Riser Spider – Fixed: A device having retractable jaws or dogs used to support the riser string on the
uppermost coupling support shoulder during deployment and retrieval of the riser.
Riser Spider – Elevator: Riser spider that is capable of being used as elevators.
Riser Tensioners: Systems for providing and maintaining top tension on the deployed riser string to
prevent buckling.
Riser Tensioner Ring: The structural interface of the telescopic joint outer barrel and the riser tensioners.
The tensioner ring may be an integral part of the telescopic joint (slip joint).
Rotary Hose (also known as Kelly Hose): Flexible hose which conducts high-pressure drilling fluids from
the standpipe to the gooseneck/swivel and kelly or top drive.
Rotary Swivel: A device hanging on the traveling hook that allows the drill string to rotate while hanging
and provide path for fluids flow.
Rotary Table: A device through which passes the bit and drill string and that transmits rotational action to
the kelly.
Rupture (or Bursting) Disc: A device designed to rupture or burst and relieve pressure at a defined pressure
and rate. The device will not close after being activated.
Safe Working Load (SWL): The maximum rated load within the equipment rated capacity for the given
operating conditions.
Safety Factor: The relationship between maximum allowable stress level and a defined material property,
normally specified minimum yield strength.
Safety System – Equipment: A system designed to automatically lead equipment being controlled to a
predetermined less critical condition in response to a fault which may endanger the equipment or the safety
of personnel and which may develop too fast to allow manual intervention.

Service Temperature (the ABS MOU Rules): The service temperature of the unit refers to the minimum
temperature of the steel in all modes of operation and is to be taken as the lowest mean daily average air
temperature based on available meteorological data for anticipated areas of operation.
Shale Shaker: Any of several mechanical devices utilizing screens and vibration that remove cuttings and
other large solids from drilling fluid.
Shear Rams: See "Rams".
Sheaves: Grooved pulley for use with wire rope.
Shut-in: A condition resulting from a shutting-in of the wellbore caused by the occurrence of one or more
undesirable events and/or actions of the safety shutdown.
Shutdown: A system action that will be initiated upon signal or failure and is to result in shutdown of
systems, subsystems, equipment, component, or part of the facility.
Skid: A steel frame on which equipment is mounted to facilitate handling.
Slip Critical Connection: A bolted structural steel connection which relies on friction between the two
connected elements rather than bolt shear or bolt bearing to join two structural elements.
Sour Service: Exposure to environments that contain H2S and can cause cracking of materials by the
mechanisms addressed in NACE MR0175/ISO 15156.
Structural Load-bearing Component: Components supporting loads due to hoisting, lifting, handling, or
self/assembled weight, etc.
Primary Structural Load-bearing Component: Component that is necessary to maintain stability of a

structure and that resides within the primary load path of the structure when the structure is loaded. Failure
of primary structural load bearing components may cause significant structural damage to the unit.
Subsystem: An assembly of interconnected or interrelated parts that performs tasks as a component as a

subset of a system.
System: An assembly of various subsystems and equipment, including all associated hardware and
software, combined into a unified whole.
Supplier: Manufacturer of components and subsystems that form part of a complete system.
Surveyor: ABS’s representative on location to perform examination or inspection activities.
Survival Condition: Condition during which a unit may be subjected to the most severe environmental
loading for which the unit is designed. Drilling or similar operations may have been discontinued due to
the severity of the environmental loading. The unit may be either afloat or supported on the sea bed, as
applicable.
Telescopic Joint (Slip Joint): A riser joint having an inner barrel and an outer barrel with sealing means
between. The inner and outer barrels of the telescopic joint move relative to each other to compensate for
the required change in the length of the riser string as the vessel moves due to marine environment.
Tensioning System: Systems for providing and maintaining tension on the deployed equipment.
Test Pressure: The pressure at which the component or system is tested to verify structural and pressure
integrity.

Test Stump: Stump with wellhead profile used to support the BOP during surface pressure test operations.
Also used during BOP storage.
Threaded Fasteners: Includes all-thread studs, tap-end studs, double-ended studs, headed bolts, cap
screws, screws, and nuts.
Tongs (Power or Manual): Automated or manual tongs used to torque drill pipe to final torque or to break
out pipe connections.
Top Drive: A top drive is either a power swivel or a power sub, typically with integrated pipe handling and
hoisting capabilities below the drive. The pipe handler may comprise an elevator, elevator links, link tilt
system and a pipe gripper mechanism to assist in making and breaking connections.
Transit Conditions: All unit movements from one geographical location to another.
Traveling Block: Set of sheaves which move up and down in the derrick as drilling line is paid out or taken
in.
Trip: The operation of hoisting the drill string from and returning it to the wellbore.
Trip Tank: Small mud tank used to keep track of the volume of mud displaced by the drill string during
"trip in" and "trip out".
Tubulars: Tubular goods can be tubing, casing, drill pipe, and line pipe.
Tubular Horizontal Transporter/Tubular chute: A machine designed for horizontal transportation of

tubulars and materials from pipe deck to drill floor and vice versa.
Type Approval: See Appendix 1-1-A2 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification – Offshore Units
and Structures (Part 1).
Umbilical: A control hose bundle or electrical cable that runs from the reel on the surface to the subsea
control pod on the LMRP.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Device supplying output power in some limited time period after
loss of input power with no interruption of the output power.
Unit Certification: Unit certification includes a technical review and survey during fabrication of
individual systems, subsystems, equipment, components, and materials for compliance with ABS Rules,
Guides, or other recognized codes and standards. This allows these items to be placed on a vessel, marine
structure or system to become eligible for classification
Unsafe Situation: An event or situation that would cause damage to Life, Property, or Natural
Environment.
Upset Condition: A condition that occurs in a system, subsystem, equipment or component when an
operating variable deviates substantially from its normal operating limits. If left unchecked, this condition
will result in a threat to safety, or undesirable events, and may cause shutting-in of system, subsystems,
equipment or component.
Utility Systems: Various systems providing the supporting functions to the drilling operations. Typical
utility systems are cooling water, hot oil for heating, chemical systems for injection, hydraulic, potable
water, nitrogen generation and system, instrument air and power generation system, etc.
Vibratory Hose: A flexible hose assembly used to convey high-pressure drilling liquids between two
piping systems or between the mud-pump discharge outlet and the high-pressure mud piping system for the
purpose of attenuating noise and/or vibration, or compensating for misalignment and/or thermal expansion.

Wellhead Connector: Hydraulic connector used to securely latch the lower BOP stack to the wellhead.
Wire Rope: Cable composed of steel wires twisted around a central core of wire or fiber.
Wireline Spoolers: System consisting of a drum, motor and control system used for running or retrieving
wireline. Often skid-mounted, may be electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically operated.

CHAPTER 1
SECTION 8
Acronyms and Abbreviations
The following acronyms and abbreviations are used in this Guide
AHC Active Heave Compensation
BHA Bottom Hole Assembly
BOP Blowout Preventer
COC Certificate of Conformity
CTOD Crack-tip Opening Displacement
CTU Conductor Tensioning Unit
CVN Charpy V-Notch
DCS Distributed Control System
DN Diameter Nominal
DSC Drilling System- Conditioning
DSD Drilling System- Derrick
DSP Drilling System- Pipe handling
EDS Emergency Disconnect System
ESD Emergency Shutdown
FAT Factory Acceptance Testing
FMEA Failure Modes and Effects Analysis
FMECA Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis
GA General Arrangement
H2S Hydrogen Sulfide
HAZ Heat-Affected Zone
HAZID Hazard Identification
HAZOP Hazard and Operability

Section 8 Acronyms and Abbreviations 1-8
HP High Pressure
HPHT High-Pressure High-Temperature
I/O Input/Output
IBOP Inside Blowout Preventer
IRC Independent Review Certificate
ITP Inspection and Test Plans
LEL Lower Explosive Limits
LMRP Lower Marine Riser Package
LP Liquid Penetrant Examination
MAC Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance
MASP Maximum Anticipated Surface Pressure
MAWP Maximum Allowable Working (Operating) Pressure
MCOC A Certificate of Compliance issued by the Manufacturer
MDST Minimum Design Service Temperature
MGS Mud-Gas Separator
MLP Mud Lift Pumps
MRL Mud Return Line
MRN Maintenance Release Note
MT Magnetic Particle Examination
MTR Material Test Report
MUX Multiplex Systems
NCR Non-Conformance Report
NDE Nondestructive Examination
NDT Nil Ductility Transition
NPS Nominal Pipe Size
NPT National Pipe Thread Tapered Thread
NRV Non-Return Valve
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer
P&ID Piping and Instrumentation Diagram
PDA Product Design Assessment
PFA Process Hazards Analysis
PHC Passive Heave Compensation
PLC Programmable Logic Controller
PM Preventive Maintenance
PO Purchase Order
PoC Point of Contact

Section 8 Acronyms and Abbreviations 1-8
PPM Parts per Million
PQR Procedure Qualification Record
PT Dye Penetrant Examination
PVT Pit Volume totalizer
ROV Remotely Operated Vehicles
RQS Recognized Quality Systems
RT Radiographic Examination
RWP Rated Working Pressure
SBP Surface-applied Back Pressure
SG Specific Gravity
SIT System Integration Test
SMYS Specified Minimum Yield Strength
SR Survey Report
SSL Structural Safety Level
SWL Safe Working Load
TA Type Approval
UPS Uninterruptible Power Supply
UT Ultrasonic Examination
UTS Ultimate Tensile Strength
VIV Vortex-Induced Vibration
WCS Well Control System
WP Working Pressure
WPS Weld Procedure Specification

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General................................................................................................35
1 General......................................................................................... 35
3 Equipment Layout.........................................................................35
5 Over Pressurization Protection..................................................... 36
7 Materials....................................................................................... 36
9 Welding and Nondestructive Examination.................................... 37
11 Platforms and Railings..................................................................37
SECTION 2 Design Specifications........................................................................38

1 Design Specification..................................................................... 38
1.1 Recognized Standards.................................................... 38
1.3 Alternative Basis of Design..............................................38
3 Design Considerations..................................................................39
3.1 Corrosion/Eriosion Allowance..........................................39
3.3 Design Conditions............................................................39
3.5 Risk Assessments for Drilling System Design................. 40
SECTION 3 Well Control Systems (WCS)............................................................ 42

1 General......................................................................................... 42
3 Blowout Prevent System and Equipment..................................... 43
3.1 Blowout Prevent Stack Configuaration............................ 43
3.3 Control Systems for Blowout Preventers- Surface
and Subsea......................................................................44
3.5 Blowout Preventer Equipment......................................... 46
5 Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP).......................................... 47
7 Choke and Kill Systems and Equipment.......................................48
7.1 Choke and Kill Lines and Flexibles..................................49
7.3 Components of Choke and Kill........................................ 49
7.5 Arrangement of Choke Manifold...................................... 50
7.7 Mud-Gas Separator (Poor Boy)....................................... 51
7.9 Gas Vents........................................................................ 51

7.11 Control Systems for Choke and Kill Equipment...............52
7.13 Cement/Kill System......................................................... 53
9 Diverter System and Equipment................................................... 54
9.1 Diverters.......................................................................... 54
9.3 Diverter Valve Assembly..................................................54
9.5 Control Systems for Diverters..........................................54
9.7 Diverter Piping................................................................. 54
11 Auxiliary Well Control Equipment................................................. 55
11.1 Kelly Cock........................................................................55
11.3 Drill Pipe Safety Valves....................................................55
11.5 Internal Blowout Prevent (IBOP)......................................55
11.7 Drill String Float Valve..................................................... 55
11.9 Permanently Installed Burner/Flare Booms (If used
for Well Control Purposes)...............................................56
13 Marine Drilling Riser System........................................................ 56
13.1 General............................................................................ 56
13.3 Riser Tensioning System................................................. 56
13.5 Marine Drilling Riser Global Analysis...............................57
13.7 Riser Operations Manual................................................. 58
TABLE 1 Well Control System (WCS).................................................43
SECTION 4 Derrick Systems (DSD)......................................................................59

1 General......................................................................................... 59
3 Conductor Tensioning System...................................................... 59
3.1 Conductor Tensioning System Equipment.......................60
3.3 Control Systems for Conductor Tensioning System........ 60
5 Drill String Compensation System ............................................... 60
5.1 Drill String Compensation Equipment..............................60
5.3 Control Systems for Drill String Compensation............... 61
7 Derricks/Masts.............................................................................. 61
7.1 Recognized Codes and Standards.................................. 61
7.3 Design Loads...................................................................61
7.5 Live Loads for Local Structure and Arrangements.......... 63
7.7 Allowable Stresses.......................................................... 63
7.9 Equivalent Stress Criteria for Plate Structures................ 63
7.11 Bolted Connections..........................................................63
9 Hoisting Equipment.......................................................................64
9.1 Drawworks....................................................................... 64
9.3 Power Swivels, Rotary Swivel, and Top Drives............... 66
9.5 Safety Devices and Instrumentation................................ 66
9.7 Hoisting Equipment Specific Requirements.....................67
11 Riser Running Equipment ............................................................67

11.1 Design Loads...................................................................67
TABLE 1 Derrick System (DSD)..........................................................59
SECTION 5 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC)..................................... 69

1 General......................................................................................... 69
3 Bulk Storage and Transfer Equipment..........................................69
5 Mud Return System and Equipment.............................................70
5.1 Degasser......................................................................... 70
5.3 Mud Returns and Processing.......................................... 70
7 Well Circulation System and Equipment (Mud Circulation –
HP & LP) ......................................................................................71
7.1 Mud Pumps......................................................................71
7.3 Control System for Well Circulation Equipment...............72
TABLE 1 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC)...........................69
SECTION 6 Handling Systems (DSP) .................................................................. 73

1 General......................................................................................... 73
3 Lifting Equipment dedicated to Drilling Operations ......................73
3.1 Cranes............................................................................. 74
3.3 Base-mounted Winches and other Lifting Devices.......... 74
3.5 Lifting Attachments and Pad Eyes...................................76
3.7 Safety Devices and Instrumentation................................ 76
5 Handling Equipment..................................................................... 77
5.1 BOP Handling Equipment................................................77
5.3 Tubular Handling Equipment........................................... 77
5.5 Casing Stabbing Boards.................................................. 78
7 Rotary Equipment......................................................................... 79
9 Miscellaneous Equipment.............................................................79
TABLE 1 Handling Systems (DSP)..................................................... 73
SECTION 7 Common Requirements for WCS, DSD, DSC, and DSP

Notations............................................................................................ 80
1 General......................................................................................... 80
3 Control Systems........................................................................... 80
3.1 General............................................................................ 80
3.3 Control Systems for Well control Equipment................... 82
3.5 Electrical Control Systems and Computer-Based
Systems........................................................................... 83
3.7 Safety Functions – Equipment.........................................83
5 Pressure-Retaining Equipment.....................................................84

5.1 Pressure Vessels............................................................. 84
5.3 Hydraulic Cylinders..........................................................84
7 Electrical Systems and Equipment............................................... 85
7.1 References...................................................................... 85
9 Rotating Machinery.......................................................................85
9.1 Internal Combustion Engines...........................................85
9.3 Rotating Electrical Machinery.......................................... 85
9.5 Hydraulic motors..............................................................86
9.7 Gears, Shafts and Couplings...........................................86
11 Skid mounted Equipment..............................................................86
11.1 General............................................................................ 86
11.3 Skid Structures................................................................ 87
11.5 Drip Pans......................................................................... 87

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 1
General
1 General
The designer of a drilling system is to evaluate the system as a whole, considering the interfacing and
interdependence of subsystem equipment and controls. The required design plans and data to be submitted
for ABS design review and approval related to the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or
components are listed in 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and Appendix 7 of this Guide.
Well Test systems are not covered under this Guide. For Well Test system requirements, refer to 8-2-1/6.5
of the ABS MOU Rules and Part 5D, Chapter 12 of the ABS Marine Vessel Rules. Drilling systems consist
of multiple subsystems designed for well construction operations.
This Guide provides detailed procedures for ABS approval of drilling systems, subsystems, equipment,
and/or components for Classification of a drilling system.
The following general items are required to be addressed in the Drilling Systems Classification process:
i) The drilling system, subsystems, equipment, and/or components are to be designed and
manufactured in compliance with the applicable recognized codes and standards, as listed in
Appendix 1, and the additional requirements specified in this Guide.
ii) Where a certain aspect of the design is not in compliance with the recognized code, standard or the
requirements of this Guide, the specific variations are to be advised and justified and will be
specially considered by ABS in accordance with Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide, on a case-by-
case basis.
iii) ABS approval requirements for typical drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or
components are outlined in Chapter 3, Section 1 and 3-2/Tables 1 through 10 of this Guide.
iv) Pressure vessels, piping, valves, fittings, electrical systems, control systems, material, welding and
NDE associated with equipment and systems for CDS Class are required to be in accordance with
the applicable sections of this Guide unless alternate requirements are provided.
3 Equipment Layout
Equipment layout and work areas associated with the drilling activities are to be arranged with the
following objectives:
i) Safety of personnel

Chapter 2 Drilling Systems
Section 1 General 2-1
ii) Separation of nonhazardous areas from those classified as hazardous areas

iii) Separation of fuel and ignition source as far as practical
iv) Prevention and mitigation of uncontrollable releases of hydrocarbons
v) Prevention and mitigation of spills and the spread of flammable liquids and gases which may
result in a hazardous event
vi) Control of potential sources of ignition
vii) Prevention and mitigation of fire and explosions
viii) Providing for adequate arrangements for escape and evacuation
ix) Facilitating effective emergency response
x) Prevention of dropped object hazards to personnel and assets
xi) Protection of equipment and components from physical damages, such as:
● Electrical cables and cableways
● Well control equipment
● Exhaust ducting and air intake ducting
● Control and shutdown systems
● Fire/gas detection, and fire-fighting equipment
xii) Provisions for safe access for maintenance and inspection
xiii) Hazardous areas and associated electrical installations are to be in compliance with the ABS MOU
Rules. Combustion equipment and combustion engines are not to be located in hazardous areas
unless the equipment and engines are designed and rated to operate in hazardous areas.
xiv) Arrangement drawings are to show the location of all equipment in hazardous areas and systems,
controls and equipment relative to the location of living quarters, all machinery spaces, tanks,
derrick, wellheads/moon pool, flare and vents, escape route, evacuation equipment, air intake,
opening to close spaces, and any fire and barrier walls.
xv) Prevention of collision between equipment, structures and personnel. Layout of equipment is to
consider the static and operating footprints for potential collisions between equipment, personnel
and structures. Collision avoidance systems and/or devices are to be incorporated into designs, as
applicable.
5 Over Pressurization Protection

Systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components that may have the potential of exposure to pressure
greater than for which they are designed are to be protected by suitable pressure protection devices.
Pressure regulators are not to be used as a substitute for pressure relief devices.
It is to be the responsibility of the systems and equipment designers to specify and consider the most
severe combination of pressure sources, such as formation pressure, pumps, flow restriction, static heads,
hammer effects, fire and/or thermally-induced pressures, in the design and selection of suitable
overpressure protection devices. Pressure relief devices will be reviewed for the applicable design
parameters, as specified in this Guide.
7 Materials
The materials for each equipment or component are to be selected with consideration of their fitness for the
intended service and in accordance with the applicable codes and standards as referenced in Appendix 1, in
addition to the material requirements of Chapter 5 of this Guide.

Engineering design material specifications that demonstrate compliance with the applicable design
standards are to be submitted with the design package for each system/component in both structure and
pressure related systems.
9 Welding and Nondestructive Examination

General requirements for welding and nondestructive examination (NDE) are to be in accordance with
Chapter 6 of this Guide.
11 Platforms and Railings

It is to be noted that various national and international regulatory bodies have requirements for the loading,
arrangement and construction of local structures such as walking/working platforms, guardrails, handrails,
ladders, stairs and walkways. It is the designer’s responsibility to be in compliance with the applicable
regulatory requirements and the design loads as given below, as applicable. Drawings are to be submitted
for working platforms and storage areas. For general traffic areas, manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
is sufficient for submittal.
The following are the minimum vertical live loads that are to be considered in the design of walkways:
● General Traffic Areas – 4,500 N/m2 (94 psf)
● Working Platforms – 9,000 N/m2 (188 psf)
● Storage Areas – 13,000 N/m2 (272 psf)

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 2
Design Specifications
1 Design Specification
The design specification for drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or components is to consider as a
minimum, but not limited to, the most adverse combination of applicable loads listed in 2-2/3.3 and
consisting of design plans, drawings, data, and calculations, as outlined in Appendix 7 of this Guide, to
substantiate the design. The design specifications are to include material specifications, welding
specifications, NDE procedures, and testing procedures/specifications utilized in the manufacturing,
installation, and commissioning of each system, subsystem, equipment, and/or component and are to
comply with the applicable section of this Guide, in addition to the codes or standards used.
1.1 Recognized Standards

The submitted design is to be in accordance with the requirements of this Guide and the latest edition of
the specified codes and standards, as referenced herein and in Appendix 1 of this Guide, from contract date
(see 1-1-4/1.3 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of Classification - Offshore Unit and Structures (Part 1)).
i) Design complying with other international or national standards not listed in Appendix 1 will be
subject to special consideration in accordance with Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide.
ii) ABS advises the designer/manufacturer to contact the ABS Technical office early in the design
phase for acceptance of alternate design codes and standards.
iii) When alternate design codes and standards are proposed, justifications can be achieved through
equivalency, gap analysis or appropriate risk analysis/philosophy to demonstrate that the proposed
alternate design code and standard will provide an equivalent level of safety to the recognized
standards as listed in this Guide, and are required to be performed in accordance with Chapter 1,
Section 5 of this Guide.
1.3 Alternative Basis of Design

Designs based on manufacturers’ standards may also be accepted. In such cases, complete details of the
manufacturer’s standard and engineering justification are to be submitted for review.
i) The manufacturer will be required to demonstrate by way of testing or analysis that the design
criteria employed results in a level of safety consistent with that of a recognized standard or code
of practice.
ii) Where strain gauge testing, fracture analysis, proof testing or similar procedures form a part of the
manufacturer’s design criteria, the procedure and results are to be submitted for ABS review.

Section 2 Design Specifications 2-2
iii) Historical performance data for drilling systems, subsystems, equipment or components is to be
submitted for justification of designs based on manufacturers’ standards.
iv) ABS will consider the application of risk evaluations for alternative or novel features for the basis
of design in accordance with Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide, as applicable.
3 Design Considerations
In addition to the codes and standards listed in 2-2/1.1 the following additional requirement are to be
complied with:
3.1 Corrosion/Eriosion Allowance

Where drilling systems (including piping systems), subsystems, equipment, and/or components are
subjected to a corrosive, erosive or abrasive environment, the design is to include allowances for such
extra material as applicable in accordance with the requirements as specified below:
i) Corrosion/erosion allowance is to be defined as specified by the applicable design codes and

standards.
ii) Alternative allowances will be considered when supplemented with technical justifications for the
life-cycle of the equipment, such as:
a) Previous documented service experience
b) Active corrosion protection and maintenance, such as galvanizing, anodes, etc.
c) Passive corrosion protection and maintenance, such as special coating, etc.
iii) In the absence of 2-2/3.1i) through 2-2/3.1iii) above, a minimum corrosion/erosion allowance of
1.6 mm (0.0625 in.) is to be utilized.
3.3 Design Conditions

The drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components are to be designed to account for all
applicable environmental, operational, test loads, or combination thereof. These include, but are not
limited to, the following:
i) Environmental Conditions, as applicable

a) Earthquake
b) Ice
c) Current, waves
d) Wind
e) Temperature
f) Storm events as per the ABS MOU Rules for operating, standby and survival conditions
ii) Operational
a) Static pressure
b) Transient pressure excursion
c) Temperature excursion
d) Tension
e) Bending
f) Vibration
g) Acceleration loads due to movement of the drilling unit

h) Deployment and retrieval

iii) Hang off and Drifting
iv) Transportation
v) Installation
vi) Commissioning
vii) Storage and Maintenance
viii) Test Loads
ix) MODU inclination
3.5 Risk Assessments for Drilling System Design

A risk assessment for the integrated drilling system and individual systems, subsystems, and equipment is
to be performed as listed below. These assessments are to be performed sequentially, starting with the
identification of hazards for the overall design, and focusing to detailed risk studies driven by the findings
of the previous studies, as necessary
3.5.1 Levels of Risk Assessment

Three (3) levels of risk assessments are to be performed, as applicable:
● Integrated Drilling System Risk Assessment

● Functional FMEA/FMECA
● Component level FMEA/FMECA (Only if required by the results of functional FMEA)
3.5.1(a) Integrated Drilling System Risk Assessment.
An integrated drilling system risk assessment is to be conducted using a qualitative hazard
identification technique such as HAZID, HAZOP, What-If or similar and submitted for review.
The purpose of the risk assessment is to identify the major hazards to people, environment and
equipment associated with the drilling systems/drilling plant and its integration to verify the
adequacy of the risk control measures for various modes of operations. The most commonly
applied technique is the HAZID and the study involves systems designers, systems integrators and
equipment manufacturers/vendors. It is the responsibility of the contracting party to coordinate the
process and the submittal of the required information.
The HAZID study is to focus on identifying hazardous situations originating from:
i) Arrangement, location and general layout of different drilling systems, subsystem and
equipment.
ii) Integration and interactions between the different drilling systems, subsystems and
equipment.
iii) Interfaces with drilling support systems, utilities and marine systems.
iv) Various operating modes.
7/1.12 of the ABS Guidance Notes on Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) for
Classification (FMEA Guidance Notes) provides detailed steps for carrying out the integrated
drilling system risk assessment.
3.5.1(b) Functional and Component-level Failure Mode and Effect Analysis/Failure Modes,
Effects and Criticality (FMEA/FMECA). The purpose of an FMEA is to verify that the individual
drilling systems, subsystems and equipment comply with the following design philosophy:
● No single failure will lead to a hazardous situation to people, environment or equipment, and

● That there are at least two means of protection in place to prevent the hazardous event.
A functional FMEA/FMECA is to be conducted for individual systems, subsystems and their

associated control systems and submitted for review. Based on the results of functional FMEA/
FMECA, a component level FMEA/FMECA may be deemed necessary to be perform for the
critical components as identified during the functional FMEA/FMECA.
If component level FMEA/FMECA is required, the results of the component level FMEA/
FMECA is to correlate to the functional FMEA/FMECA to provide an overall understanding of
the local effects of the equipment failure mode and ‘global’ effects of the failure of the control/
safety function and other equipment/interfaces in the system.
For certain simple systems, standard engineering methods may suffice to demonstrate compliance
with the stated design philosophy. Such simple systems may be exempt from a FMEA study and
typically refer to those systems for which the following statements hold true:
● Manual control only – could be hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, etc. (e.g., on/off switches,
manual lever)
● Do not have any PLC or computerized control system
● Control function cannot be altered by operator
● Go mechanically to safe state in all failure modes
● Failure of control will not impact other systems
● System will not be impacted by other system failure
A FMEA/FMECA Validation Program and related test procedures are to be developed and
submitted for review. The purpose of the FMEA/FMECA Validation Program is to verify critical
and selected results (that are not already covered by FAT and SIT procedures) from the FMEA.
The specific goals of the tests are to validate the:
● Effectiveness of system to identify failures

● Effect of identified failures on system/equipment
● Response of safety controls
● Other measures to protect against failure
Validation tests are to be carried out during factory acceptance testing and/or as part of the on
board commissioning of the integrated systems in accordance with the approved program and
verified by the attending Surveyor.
When final testing requires assembly and installation on-board the facility, it may not be possible
to perform all required testing at vendor’s plant. In this case, FMEA/FMECA Validation testing is
be carried out as part of the system integration testing (SIT) during commissioning. Any
modifications made to the Validation test plan are to be submitted for review.
7/1.11 of the FMEA Guidance Notes provides detailed steps for the FMEA/FMECA and FMEA
Validation Program.
3.5.2 Maintenance of Risk Assessment

Risk study results are to be maintained by the Owner of the drilling unit. If any subsequent
modifications to the classed drilling system, subsystems, equipment or components are carried
out, relevant risk studies are to be updated to incorporate the modifications; and to demonstrate
that any hazards derived from the modifications have been mitigated, as applicable.

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 3
Well Control Systems (WCS)
1 General
The WCS notation comprises classification of the following systems including their subsystems,
equipment, components, and associated control system:
i) Sub-sea BOP stack:

● Lower BOP stack
● Lower Marine Riser (LMRP)
● Blowout Preventers (BOPs)
ii) Surface BOP stack (only for surface installations)
iii) Marine Drilling Risers including Riser Tensioning
iv) Diverter System
v) Choke & Kill System including Mud Gas Separator
vi) Kill/Cement Unit
vii) Secondary Well Control Systems:
● Acoustic
● ROV Interface
viii) Emergency Well Control Systems:
● Deadman
● Autoshear
● Emergency Disconnect System (EDS)
ix) Auxiliary Well Control System
The well control systems, equipment, and/or components are to be in compliance with the API standards
indicated in 2-3/Table 1, and the additional requirements of this Guide.

Section 3 Well Control Systems (WCS) 2-3
TABLE 1
Well Control System (WCS)
Description Standards (as applicable)
Blowout Preventer (BOP) System and Equipment API 16A, 16D, 53, 59
Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP) API 16A, 16D, 16F, 16R, 16Q
Choke and Kill System and Equipment API 16C, 6A, 16F, 53
Diverter System and Equipment API 16D, 53, 64
Marine Drilling Riser System API 16F, 16R, 16Q
Auxiliary Well Control Equipment API 53, 7-1, 7G
3 Blowout Prevent System and Equipment

Typical components of the BOP system and equipment would include ram and annular type BOPs, BOP
stack structural frame, accumulators, connectors, clamps, drilling spools, spacer spools, control systems/
consoles/panels, control pods, umbilical, flexible/jumper lines (choke, kill, mud booster and hydraulic),
hydraulic hoses, MUX (multiplex), cable reels, rigid piping, hydraulic power units, manifold, ROV
interface, test stump and testing equipment.
3.1 Blowout Prevent Stack Configuaration

BOP stack configurations are to be in accordance with API 53, and the additional requirements as listed
below.
i) For Subsea BOP Systems Two (2) shear rams are to be provided for moored or dynamically
positioned units, of which at least one shall be capable of sealing.
ii) All rams capable of sealing are to have a positive locking device to prevent opening in the event of
loss of closing pressure.
iii) The BOP stack configuration is to be able to close BOPs on all sizes of drill pipe, drill collars and
casing that may be used within a drilling program.
iv) The ram-type BOP positions and outlet arrangements on subsea BOP stacks are to provide reliable
means to handle potential well control events and provide means to:
a) Close in on the drill string, casing or liner and allow circulation
b) Close and seal on open hole and allow volumetric well control operations
c) Strip the drill string using the annular BOP(s)
d) Hang off the drill pipe on a ram-type BOP and control the wellbore
e) Shear logging cable or the drill pipe and seal the wellbore
f) Disconnect the riser from the BOP stack
g) Circulate across the BOP stack to remove trapped gas
v) Systems of valves complying with the requirements of 2-3/7 are to be provided.
vi) Spacer spools can be used to provide separation between two (2) drill-through components. If
installed, spacer spools for BOP stacks are to meet the following minimum specifications:
a) Have a vertical bore diameter the same internal diameter as the mating equipment
b) Have a rated working pressure equal to the rated working pressure of the mating
equipment

c) Are not to have any penetrations capable of exposing the wellbore to the environment,
without dual isolation capabilities
vii) The BOP equipment is to be designed for a specified operating envelope, and suitable for the
intended application. The BOP manufacturer is to specify and to attest to BOP stack minimum and
maximum capability with regard to its operating envelope such as:
● Pressure
● Temperature
● Shearing capabilities
● Water Depth
viii) The BOP structural frame and lifting attachments are to be designed considering applicable loads
as specified in 2-3/3.3 of this Guide and in accordance with the design criteria and procedures
requirements of API 2A-WSD applicable to movable structures or other recognized standard.
Allowable stresses are to be in accordance with design standards and/or AISC.
3.3 Control Systems for Blowout Preventers- Surface and Subsea

i) The control systems and components (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic, etc.) are to
comply with 2-7/3 and are to be in compliance with API 16D and API 53 as applicable.
ii) Calculations are to demonstrate compliance with the standards referenced above for the hydraulic
fluids volumetric capacity of the accumulator system, pump system and reservoir capacity,
including the rapid discharge systems.
iii) Well control systems and components are to comply with the functional requirements of API 53,
and include response time, pump system sizing, arrangements, and charging of accumulator
systems.
iv) As a minimum, two (2) full-functioning well control panels are to be provided:
a) One (1) well control panel is to be at the driller’s station or cabin.
b) A second well control panel is to be located in a nonhazardous area, as defined in
4-3-5/7.1 of the ABS MOU Rules, API 500 or API 505, without having to cross the drill
floor or cellar deck, and is to be arranged for easy access in case of emergency.
v) Well control panels are to be accessible and functional at all times.
vi) Well control panels are to be mutually independent (i.e., directly connected to the control system,
and not connected in series).
vii) For the subsea BOP stack, adequate measures are to be provided to prevent accidental unlatching
of the wellhead connector until the well is secure, such as two-hand function, two-step action,
protective cover or equivalent.
viii) Shear ram functions are to be two-hand function, two-step action, protective cover or equivalent.
ix) The well control panels are to include controls for at least, but not limited to:
a) Control pressure regulators or means of controlling pressure regulation.
b) Close or open of all rams, annular preventers, and choke and kill valves on BOP stack
c) Diverter operations
d) Disconnect of riser connector (floating installations)
e) Emergency disconnect (floating installations)
f) Positive means of locking of rams in the closed position, as applicable
x) With pumps inoperative, the BOP control system’s accumulator systems(including hydraulic
power fluid, hydraulic pilot fluid, and pneumatic pilot) shall meet the accumulator capacity

requirements of API 16D, API 53, and the additional requirements of this Guide. It shall also be
sufficient to perform all testing required therein, including drawdown tests. Calculations are to be
in accordance with API 16D. The system shall be able to demonstrate compliance with these
requirements.
xi) The accumulator capacity for the BOP system (BOP stack configuration and minimum required
operator pressure) is to be determined based on the following, in accordance with API 16D and
API 53, as applicable:
a) MASP and BOP rated working pressure
b) Water depth
c) Hydraulic fluid properties
d) Local regulations
e) Operational sequence
f) Shearing pressure
xii) The required hydraulic fluid capacity is to be calculated in accordance with API 16D to perform
the following functions:
a) Subsea BOP stack:
1) To close and open one (1) largest volume annular-type preventer from full-open
position
2) To close and open four (4) largest ram-type preventers from full-open position
3) To open valve(s) on BOP stack for one (1) flow path
4) To close all ram locking devices, as applicable
b) Surface BOP stack:
1) To close one (1) largest volume annular-type preventer from full-open position
2) To close four (4) largest ram-type preventers from full-open position
3) To open valve(s) on BOP stack for one (1) flow path
4) To close all ram locking devices, as applicable
Note: Variations to the surface stack arrangement per API 53 will be specially
considered.
xiii) The calculations for the pre charge pressure and hydraulic fluid capacity are to consider the
operational sequence during well control to provide sufficient hydraulic pressure and fluids for the
shearing operation for the specified operational sequence and wellbore pressure, and with the
pumps inoperative.
xiv) When stripping accumulators are installed on BOP stack, subsea or surface, additional hydraulic
fluids volumes are to be provided in addition to 2-3/3.3xii). The additional hydraulic fluids
required are to be based on the BOP hydraulic operator rated working pressure, and the minimum
specified pre-charge pressure of the stripping accumulators.
xv) For hydraulic fluid drawdown tests, the system is to have sufficient usable fluid volume as
required by API 53 to demonstrate the following:
a) To perform all functions specified in 2-3/3.3xii) for subsea or surface BOP stack,
respectively, against zero wellbore pressure while pumps are inoperative.
b) The remaining pressure after completion of 2-3/3.3xii) for subsea or surface BOP stack,
respectively, is to be 1.38 MPa (200 psi) or greater, above the minimum pre-charge
pressure.

xvi) Secondary and emergency well control systems, such as Emergency Disconnect Systems, acoustic
(if installed), deadman and autoshear systems, are to be provided for DP or moored units with
dedicated rapid discharge system with dedicated subsea accumulator unit. The main hydraulic
supply for the secondary and emergency well control systems can be powered by a shared
dedicated subsea accumulator unit.
The accumulator capacity, volume and pressure, is to be calculated in accordance with API 16D
and is to consider all applicable closing sequences to shut in the well.
Floating installations or dynamically-positioned units require the following independent

emergency well control systems and safety features. These systems are to be designed in
accordance with API 16D and API 53, as applicable:
a) Emergency Disconnect System
b) Deadman System
c) Autoshear System
xvii) Acoustic control system, if provided on drilling unit, is to be in accordance with API 16D.
xviii) Subsea BOP stack is to be equipped with ROV intervention equipment and control systems, and is
to be provided with the following provisions:
a) ROV intervention equipment which at a minimum allows the closing of one set of pipe
ram, closing of one each blind-shear rams, and unlatching of the LMRP. These functions
are to operate independently of the primary BOP control system.
b) ROV interface and/or receptacles are to be in accordance with ANSI/API 17H.
3.5 Blowout Preventer Equipment

3.5.1 Design Requirements
i) Surface and subsea, ram and annular blowout preventers, including workover and well
servicing BOPs, ram blocks, annular packing units, valves, wellhead connectors, drilling
spools, adapter spools and clamps are to be designed, fabricated and tested by the
respective manufacturers for compliance with API 6A, API 16A, API 53 and the
additional requirements of this Guide.
ii) Hydraulically-operated wellhead, riser and choke and kill line connectors are to have
redundant mechanisms for unlock and disconnect.
iii) The secondary unlock and disconnect mechanism may be hydraulic or mechanical, but
must operate independently of the primary unlocking and disconnect mechanism.
iv) In addition to the design conditions/loads listed in 2-2/3.3, the design of preventers is to
consider the following loads, as applicable:
a) The weight of a specified length of drill string suspended in the pipe ram
preventer
b) Loads induced from the marine drilling riser
c) Designers specified ratings of pipe centering capabilities and ability to shear with
pipe in defined positions
v) The blind-shear rams are to be capable to seal after shearing operations.
vi) The shear rams are to be capable of shearing the largest section and highest-grade of
tubulars (drill pipe, casing, wireline, etc.), as applicable, in accordance with API 16A and
API 53, as applicable, or the specified drilling program.

vii) The shearing capacity calculations for the shear rams are to consider the following,
simultaneously, as applicable:
a) MASP (surface) and/or well head pressure (subsea)
b) Forces to shear highest-grade of Tubulars
c) Rated working pressure of BOP
d) Frictional force
e) Shearing ratio
f) Shear test data to validate shear capacity calculation are to be submitted.
viii) The annular, pipe and blind ram BOP operator design pressure is to consider the
following, simultaneously, as applicable:
a) MASP (surface) and/or well head pressure (subsea)
b) Rated working pressure of BOP
c) Frictional force
ix) Procedures to test preventers during manufacturing and “on-site” are to be developed and
submitted for ABS review.
x) For subsea BOP and associated components such as valves, control system components,
sealing components, elastomeric components, etc., are to be designed with consideration
to marine conditions and external pressure gradient due to rated water depth.
xi) All nonmetallic materials are to be suitable for the intended service conditions, such as
temperature and fluid compatibility.
xii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
xiii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
3.5.2 Operations/Maintenance Manuals

i) Manufacturers are to provide the Owner with product operations and maintenance
manuals to assist in the safe operation of each assembly on each installation.
ii) The manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedules are to be available for each
component of the BOP assembly. These schedules are to be used by the equipment Owner
to prescribe maintenance routines.
5 Lower Marine Riser Package (LMRP)

Typical components of the lower marine riser package, including connectors, flex joints, and adapter
spools are to be designed, fabricated, and tested by the respective manufacturers for compliance with API
16A, API 16F, API 16R as applicable and the additional requirements of this Guide.
The LMRP package typically includes annular BOPs that are to be designed, fabricated, and tested in
accordance with 2-3/3 of this Guide, API 16A, API 16D and API 53.
i) Lower marine riser package disconnect arrangements are to be designed for all possible operating
and loading conditions. The loading conditions of the LMRP are to consider, but not limited to,
the following:
a) Riser angle – min/max
b) Side loads
c) Bending loads

d) Currents
e) External pressure due to static head
f) Internal pressure
g) Top tension – min/max
ii) The LMRP design is to consider the induced loads as defined in API 16F and API 16Q, as a
minimum, for the following modes:
a) Installation
b) Drilling
c) Retrieval
d) Storage and maintenance
e) Hang-off
f) Drifting
iii) For dynamically-positioned floating units, an emergency disconnect system (EDS) is to be
provided
iv) The emergency disconnect is to initiate and complete disconnection in correct sequence. A typical
emergency disconnect sequence may be:
a) Blind-shear
b) Close well
c) Disconnect LMRP
v) LMRP and associated components, such as valves, control system components, sealing
components, elastomeric components, etc., are to be designed with consideration to marine
conditions and external pressure gradient due to rated water depth.
vi) Adapter spools for BOP stacks are to meet the following minimum specifications:
a) Have a minimum vertical bore diameter equal to the internal diameter of the mating
equipment
b) Have a rated working pressure equal to the lowest rated end connection of the mating
equipment
vii) LMRP structural frame and lifting attachments are to be designed with consideration to all
applicable loading conditions. The applicable structural design code and standard, including
loading conditions, are provided in 2-3/3.1viii) of this Guide.
viii) The LMRP and lower stack frames are to be analyzed together as a unit.
7 Choke and Kill Systems and Equipment

Typical components of the choke and kill system and equipment would include the choke and kill
manifolds, including their chokes, spools, flanges and valves; choke and kill lines; connectors and flexible
lines (drape hoses at Moonpool area and jumper lines at LMRP); BOP stack fail-close valves; Mud-Gas
Separator; kill/Cement unit; connecting piping from the kill unit and/or cementing unit and drilling fluid
manifold to the choke manifold, buffer tanks and control systems.
Choke and kill systems, manifolds, arrangements, and associated components are to be in compliance with
the applicable codes and standards (API 6A, API 16C, API 53) and the additional requirements of this
Guide.
Piping, flexible lines and hydraulic hoses are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 of this Guide, and the
standards listed above.

Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide, and the standards listed above.
Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable, and the standards
listed above.
7.1 Choke and Kill Lines and Flexibles

i) Design and arrangements of choke and kill lines and flexibles are to be in accordance with API
16C and API 53.
ii) Choke and kill lines from the BOP stack to the choke manifold are to be equipped with two (2)
valves each installed on the BOP stack. For surface BOP stacks, at least one of these two valves is
to be arranged for remote hydraulic operation.
iii) For subsea BOP stacks, these two valves are to be arranged for remote hydraulic operation.
iv) Hydraulically-operated valves on subsea units are to be fail-close valves to seal upon failure of the
control system pressure. Fail-close can be achieved by a dedicated pressure accumulator back up,
by a spring close mechanism or other acceptable fail-close mechanisms.
v) Stack mounted valves are to meet the applicable requirements of API 16C, API 53, and API 6A.
vi) Hydraulically operated choke and kill isolation valves used for testing purposes are to be fail safe
open type.
vii) The design pressure of the pipes, valves, flexible lines, connectors, fittings, and the choke
manifolds from the BOP stack to the isolation valve downstream of the choke is to be the same as
that of the ram-type BOPs or greater.
viii) Choke and Kill connections to the BOP are to be in accordance with the provisions of API 16A,
16C, and 53. Connections are to be shown on the design drawings and submitted for review.
ix) The choke lines that connect the BOP stack to the choke manifold and lines downstream of the
choke are to:
a) Be as straight as practicable; turns, if required, are to be targeted (see API 53)
b) Be firmly anchored to prevent excessive dynamic effect of fluid flow and the impact of
drilling solids and/or vibration
c) Supports and fasteners located at points where piping changes direction are to be capable
of restraining pipe deflection in all operating conditions
d) Refer to 2-2/3.1 for guidance on corrosion/erosion allowances.
x) For flexible lines, the requirements contained in 4-2/7 of this Guide are applicable. End
Connections are to be in accordance with applicable parts of Chapter 4.
7.3 Components of Choke and Kill

i) For surface BOP choke and kill manifolds with a rated working pressure of 20.7 MPa (3000 psi)
and above, only flanged, welded or clamped connections, and rated hammer unions are to be used.
ii) For subsea BOP choke and kill manifolds, end connections only, to be flanged, welded or clamped
connections, and rated hammer unions are to be used, regardless of rated working pressure.
iii) For Surface BOP systems with rated working pressure less than 69 MPa (10000 psi), the
minimum size for the choke lines is to be 50.8 mm (2.0 in.) nominal diameter.
iv) For Surface BOP systems with rated working pressure of 69 MPa (10000 psi) and higher and all
Subsea BOP systems, the minimum size for the choke lines is to be 76.2 mm (3.0 in.) nominal
diameter.
v) HPHT well equipment is to be designed as per Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide.

vi) Minimum size for vent lines downstream of the choke is to be at least the same internal diameter
as for the chokes end connections.
vii) When buffer tanks are utilized, provisions are to be made to isolate a failure or malfunction
without interrupting flow control.
viii) All choke manifold valves subject to erosion from well control are to be full-opening and designed
to operate in high pressure gas and abrasive fluid service.
ix) All manual chokes and valves are to be provided with local marking or indicators to enable the
operator to determine the valve positions, “open” or “closed”. Placards on the valve can be used
for this purpose.
7.5 Arrangement of Choke Manifold

i) The choke and kill manifold assembly is to include the following:
a) The choke manifold is to be designed for a minimum of three (3) chokes, of which at least
one (1) is remotely controlled and one (1) is manual. The chokes are to be arranged to
permit control through either the choke or kill line.
b) Each of the chokes is to be capable of being isolated and replaced while the manifold is in
use.
c) Choke and kill manifold is to permit pumping or flowing through either choke or kill line.
d) For subsea BOP, the arrangement is to allow for simultaneous choke and kill operation.
e) The manifold arrangement is to permit the rerouting of flow through an alternative choke
without interrupting the well control operation or interfering with pumping through the
other line.
f) RWP connection to both drilling fluid and cement unit pump systems
ii) The manifolds downstream of the choke are to be designed to minimize erosion or abrasion from
high velocity flow, by avoiding sharp bends. If 90 degree cannot be avoided, these are to be
buffered by targeted flanges or fluid cushions.
iii) Each of the manifolds’ inlet and outlet lines is to be fitted with an isolation valve with the
pressure-temperature rating as the choke inlet and outlet accordingly. Temperature rating shall
meet the design temperature of the manifold.
iv) The choke manifold is to have an alternate discharge outlet:
a) To avoid a single failure, blockage or washout impairing the manifold operation
b) To permit flow to a mud-gas separator, to a flare boom and emergency discharge
overboard
v) The routing downstream of the chokes to mud-gas separator or discharge overboard are to be
provided with an alternate path for redundancy so that eroded, plugged, or malfunctioning parts
can be isolated without interrupting flow.
vi) In the event the capacity of the mud-gas separator is exceeded, the choke manifold is to have the
capability to divert flow to alternate locations for emergency discharge, such as vent lines, flare or
discharge overboard as applicable.
vii) The bleed line (bypassing the primary three chokes), if installed, is to be at least equal to or greater
than the maximum internal diameter to the upstream choke line.
viii) Overboard lines are to be arrange so that discharges can be directed in downwind directions and
away from the drilling facility. Routing along the diverter lines is recommended.
ix) The Joule-Thompson effects are to be considered in the design and material selections of choke
and kill manifold and downstream piping and associated components.

7.7 Mud-Gas Separator (Poor Boy)

i) Mud-gas separator is to be designed and manufactured in accordance with ASME Section VIII
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and 2-7/5 of this Guide.
ii) The mud-gas separator is to be vented to the atmosphere through the vent line.
iii) The pressure relief valve or rupture disc is not considered necessary as the mud-gas separator is
vented to the atmosphere.
iv) The vent line is to be provided without any restriction.
v) Precautions are to be taken to prevent erosion at the point the drilling fluid and gas flow impinges
on the vessel wall.
vi) Design pressure of the mud-gas separator is to be determined by the vent line being filled with
mud at 2.2 SG, or the specified maximum mud weight.
vii) The vent line is to be as straight as possible, free from obstructions and is to be sized and arranged
to minimize backpressure. If the vent line is not straight, suitable backpressure calculations are to
be provided
viii) The maximum design backpressure in the vent line is to allow for the maximum specified gas flow
without gas breaking through the mud outlet liquid seal with the design mud/condensate weight of
0.6SG .
ix) The mud-gas separator is to be provided with a high level sensor or equivalent for notification of
re-routing of flow from choke to overboard or alternate route.
x) The mud-gas separator is to be equipped with provisions to prevent gas blow-by to the mud
condition equipment downstream of the mud-gas separator and for the notification of manual or
automatic re-routing of flow from choke for overboard discharge or to stop the flow. These
provisions are to be achieved by:
a) Pressure and temperature monitoring, and
b) Passive liquid seal, which is to be a minimum of 3 meters (9.84 feet) for general purpose
drilling operations
xi) Provisions are to be provided for monitoring of liquid seals by:
a) Measuring the differential pressure at the liquid seal, or
b) Monitoring the liquid seal with a low-level sensor system arranged to provide notification
to rig personnel to take corrective action to prevent gas blow-by.
xii) The mud-gas separator and liquid seal is to be equipped for easy clean out and drain at lowest
point. Drain line is to slope downward to prevent backflow.
xiii) The mud-gas separator is to have sufficient capacity for the intended use in accordance with
established sizing procedure, details of the sizing calculations are to be documented on board. The
sizing of the mud-gas separator is to be performed in accordance with SPE Paper No. 20430:
Mud-Gas Separator Sizing and Evaluation.
xiv) Piping is to be in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 4 of this Guide.
xv) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
xvi) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.
7.9 Gas Vents

i) Vent lines from mud-gas separator (poor boy) are to extend a minimum of 4 m (13 ft) above the
crown block and to have a minimum nominal diameter of 250 DN (10 in. NPS).
ii) For HPHT drilling operations, the vent lines are to have a minimum nominal diameter of 300 DN
(12 in. NPS).

iii) The vent line is to be as straight as possible, free of obstructions, and is to be sized and arranged to
minimize backpressure in the upstream equipment of the vent line. Minimum line diameters are
noted in 2-3/7.9i) above.
iv) The vent line from the mud-gas separator is not to be interconnected to any other vent lines.
v) Vent lines are to be routed to avoid low point and to be self-draining to avoid accumulation of mud
and to be sloped toward the mud-gas separator.
vi) Vent line from liquid seal siphon breaker of the mud-gas separator is:
a) To be elevated at a minimum 10 meters (32.8 ft) above the mud-gas separator
b) To have a minimum internal diameter of 100 mm (4.0 in.)
c) To be as straight as possible, free of obstructions
d) Not to be interconnected to other vent lines
vii) Bypass lines to alternate locations from choke manifold, such as vent lines, flare or overboard, as
applicable, must be provided in case of malfunction or in the event the capacity of the mud-gas
separator is exceeded. These lines are not to be interconnected to the diverter lines.
viii) Overboard lines are to be directed for discharge in downwind directions and away from the
drilling facility. Routing along the diverter lines is preferred.
ix) Vent lines from degassers are to be:
a) Individual lines
b) As straight as possible
c) Free of obstructions
d) Free of “water traps”
e) Sized and arranged to minimize backpressure
f) Arranged to accommodate possible precipitation of fluid in the vent line
x) The vent lines from the degasser must not be interconnected to any other vent lines.
7.11 Control Systems for Choke and Kill Equipment

i) The control systems and components (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic, etc.) are to
comply with 2-7/3 and are to be in compliance with applicable codes and standards such as API
16C and API 53, and the additional requirements of this Guide.
ii) A minimum of one remote control station is to be away from the choke manifold and protected to
avoid hazards caused by leakage from the manifold, valves or chokes.
iii) Any remotely operated valve and choke is to be equipped with emergency operation provisions as
required by API 16C. Alternative power sources other than specified in API 16C can be utilized as
long as the availability and redundancy of the system is equivalent or better.
iv) All remotely operated valves are to be provided with “open” and “close” indicators on the control
panels at all locations.
v) Remotely operated valves that have alternative means of local control in an emergency are to be
provided with local markings to enable the operator to determine the valve position.
vi) A choke position indicator showing the relative position of the choke trim or relative orifice size
as a percent of fully open is to be provided at the control panel.
vii) Electronic pressure and temperature transmitters and analog gauges are to comply with the
requirements of API 16C, as a minimum.
viii) The instrumentation gauges and/or transmitter on the choke manifold are to be at a minimum:

a) Analog test pressure measurements are to be made at not less than 25% and not more than
75% of the full pressure span.
b) Electronic pressure gauges and chart recorders, or data acquisition systems are to be
utilized within the manufacturer’s specified range.
ix) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
7.13 Cement/Kill System

Typical components of the cement/kill system would include pumps, connecting piping, pulsation
dampeners and safety valves. The following requirements are to be complied with:
i) If the cement pumps are to be arranged to be capable of emergency well kill circulation, using the
drilling fluid transferred from the mud pits, then compliance with the following is required:
High-pressure kill unit (pump system) is to comply with the following requirements:
a) It is to be capable of pumping kill fluids at a pressure at least equal to the maximum
rating of the BOP.
b) Means of pumping are to be powered by either:
● Dedicated internal combustion engine, or
● Electrically powered – to be connected to a back-up power supply, independent of the
main power supply
c) Pumps required to transfer drilling fluid from the mud pits to the high pressure kill
pumping system should also be connected to a back-up power supply, independent of the
main power supply.
d) It is to be equipped to allow the equipment operator to monitor the pressure, flow rate,
and volume of the fluid being pumped.
ii) Cement pump installations or modifications to existing installations are to be subjected to ABS
review and approval.
iii) Cement pumps are to be in accordance with 2-5/7.1.
iv) The interconnect lines between systems that are used only for emergency well kill circulation are
to be fitted with blind or spectacle flanges, lockable valves or similar devices that can be opened
as needed, but positively isolate the systems during normal operations. These flanges are to be
clearly identified and labeled on the P&ID, and corresponding flanges or valves are to be
appropriately identified and their function indicated.
v) The cement manifold is to be rated to the ram-type BOPs pressure rating.
vi) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
vii) Pressure-retaining equipment associated with cementing equipment is to be in accordance with the
requirements of 2-7/5.
viii) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
ix) Piping systems and their components are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 of this Guide.
x) Materials used for cementing system and equipment are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this
Guide.
xi) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide.

9 Diverter System and Equipment

Typical components of the diverter system and equipment would include annular sealing device (packer,
housing), accumulators, diverter flex joint, overshot mandrel, overshot packers, overshot spool, diverter
test tool, vent outlets, valves, power unit and piping, control systems/consoles/panels.
The diverter equipment and arrangements are to be in compliance with the requirements of API 64, API
53, API 16D, or other recognized standards and the additional requirements of this Guide. The allowable
stresses for the diverter equipment are to be in accordance with API 64.
9.1 Diverters
i) A diverter with a securing element for closing around the drill string in the wellbore or open hole
is to be provided when it is desired to divert wellbore fluids away from the rig floor.
ii) The diverter is to be equipped with two (2) overboard/vent lines sized in accordance with API 64
and lines are to be routed overboard to opposite sides of the rig floor.
9.3 Diverter Valve Assembly

i) Valves in the discharge piping are to be of the full opening and full bore type.
ii) Valves are to be designed per API 6D and to the rated working pressure of the diverter.
iii) Valve actuators are to be sized to be capable of operating the diverter valve under full differential
pressure.
9.5 Control Systems for Diverters

i) The diverter control systems and components (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic,
etc.) are to comply with 2-7/3 and are to be in compliance with API 64, API 53 and API 16D. This
also includes response time, volumetric capacity of the accumulator system, hydraulic reservoir,
pump system sizing and arrangements.
ii) Any remotely operated valve is to be equipped with a backup power source.
iii) The diverter system is to be controlled from two (2) locations; one is to be located near the
driller’s console/workstation and the other is to be located at an accessible location away from the
well activity area and reasonably protected from physical damage from drilling activities on the
drill floor. Both controls are to be arranged for ready operation by the driller.
iv) The control systems are to have interlocks so that the diverter valve opens before the annular
element closes around the drill string. An interlock override function is to be provided to enable
valve operation and closure of the diverter packer in case of interlock failure.
v) When the diverter element close function is activated, the return flow to the mud system is to be
isolated.
vi) The range of diverter elements is to be suitable to seal on all sizes of drill string elements on
which the diverter is required to operate.
vii) A relief valve is required to prevent over pressurization of the diverter packer. If applicable, the
diverter system is to have an interlock system to prevent insert packer closure unless the insert
packer is installed and the insert packer lock-down dogs are energized.
viii) Local and remote controls are to be provided that are visible and specify which valve is operated
with the open/closed position of each valve clearly indicated.
ix) Electrical Systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
9.7 Diverter Piping

i) Pipe size, arrangement and support is to be determined with due consideration given to maximum
pressure and maximum reaction loads, erosion resistance and the range of temperatures likely to
be encountered in service.

ii) Piping is to be run in accordance with the pipe routing requirements of API 64.
iii) Flexible lines are to be avoided where possible. When this is not practicable, data is to be
submitted substantiating their suitability for the maximum pressure, maximum reaction loads, fire-
resistance, erosion resistance, expected range of temperatures, and their compatibility to
associated piping provided it is adequately supported and connected.
iv) Suitable pipe supports in accordance with ASME B31.3.
v) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 of this Guide.
vi) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
vii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.
11 Auxiliary Well Control Equipment

Typical auxiliary well control equipment includes flare booms and related piping, kelly cocks, drill pipe
safety valves, IBOP, drill string float valves, etc. Submit the following documentation, as applicable:
i) Design details for valves, and fittings

ii) Manufacturing specifications, as applicable
iii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
iv) Details of flare boom(s) fitted for well control operations are to be submitted in accordance with
2-3/11.9.
Auxiliary well control equipment are to be used in a rotary drilling system. For drilling installation using a
top drive system, an automated or manual drill pipe safety valve must be installed. Auxiliary well control
equipment is to be in compliance with API 7-1, and API 53, and Chapter 4 of this Guide.
11.1 Kelly Cock

i) The drill string is to be equipped with two (2) kelly cocks, one of which is to be mounted below
the swivel (upper kelly cock valve), and the other at the bottom of the power swivel or kelly
(lower kelly cock).
ii) The lower kelly cock is a full-opening valve that backs up the upper kelly cock. For surface BOP
stack, the lower kelly cock is to be sized so that it can be run through the blowout preventer stack.
iii) Testing of kelly cocks is to be performed bi-directionally and at a low and high pressure, with the
low pressure tests first.
11.3 Drill Pipe Safety Valves

i) A full-opening manual safety valve is to be available on the rig floor to be installed into the drill
string immediately in the event of a kick occurring during a trip.
ii) The wrench to operate the valve is to be readily accessible to the crew to perform this operation.
11.5 Internal Blowout Prevent (IBOP)

i) An internal blowout preventer or IBOP is a back pressure or check valve that is to be provided in
the drill string.
ii) IBOP is spring-operated and is locked in the open position with a removable rod lock screw.
11.7 Drill String Float Valve

i) A float valve is to be installed just above the drill bit to protect the drill string from back flow or
inside blowouts.
ii) The two (2) most common types of floats are spring-operated piston (plunger) and flapper types.

11.9 Permanently Installed Burner/Flare Booms (If used for Well Control Purposes)
11.9.1 Design
i) The use of the flare boom is to extend and support the burner/flare at a safe distance away
from the drilling area. This is to limit exposure of personnel, equipment, and helicopter
traffic to vent gas, flare exhaust, or flare radiation.
ii) In addition to this Guide, flare and vent analysis is to be in compliance with 3-3/15.5 of
the ABS Rules for Building and Classing Facilities on Offshore Installations (Facilities
Rules).
11.9.2 Design Loads
i) The loads to be considered in the design of a boom structure are to include, as applicable:
a) Dead weight of structure, piping, fittings, rigging, snow and ice, walkways, guard
rails, etc.
b) Wind loads
c) Thermal and impulsive loads resulting from the use of the flare
d) Vessel motion-induced loads
ii) The values of all design loads are to be listed in the submitted design documentation.
iii) Loads resulting from vessel motions and wind loads can be established using the
procedures given in API 4F.
iv) The derivation of loading conditions to be used in the design is to give due account of the
operational requirements of the Owner, and are to reflect both the operational and stowed
modes of the boom.
13 Marine Drilling Riser System
13.1 General
Typical marine drilling riser subsystems and components include the following:
● Riser tensioning system and equipment

● Riser spider, gimbal and shock absorber equipment
● Riser running equipment
● Riser recoil system
● Riser joints and riser pup joints
● Telescopic joints (slip joints)
● Buoyancy equipment
● Ball and flex joints
● Riser couplings (connectors): mechanical, hydraulic, etc.
● Special equipment, including fill-up valves, mud boost system, riser VIV suppression devices
13.3 Riser Tensioning System

Typical components of the riser tensioning system would include accumulators, air/nitrogen compressors,
air/nitrogen dryers, control systems/consoles/panels, hydraulic cylinders, HPU, piping, pressure vessels,
tensioners, guideline, podline, wireline, sheaves for tensioners, telescopic arms, wire ropes, etc. The design
of these components is to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of this Guide.

13.3.1 Component Specific Requirements

i) The riser tensioning system and associated components listed above are to be designed
manufactured and tested in accordance with the applicable sections of API 2RD, API 16F,
and API 16R, and the additional requirements of this Guide.
ii) Design analysis and results, boundary conditions and loading conditions are to be
submitted for review, showing that the drilling riser tensioning system components will
not be overstressed at the maximum tension capacity, either in axial loading, lateral
loading or bending and overpressure.
iii) Load-carrying parts are to be in accordance with API 16F, as applicable.
iv) Locking mechanism is to be in accordance with design codes and standards and 2-4/9.7.
v) Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders are to be in accordance with 2-7/5.3.
vi) Piping and hoses are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 of this Guide.
vii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
viii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.
13.3.2 Riser Recoil System
Riser recoil system is to be provided to protect personnel and prevent damage to the drilling unit
and to various equipment in the load path of the marine drilling riser system.
The riser recoil system is typically integrated with the riser tensioning system and its control
system by incorporating various control valves, sensors, hydraulic/pneumatic energy sources, and
computer-based control systems, etc.
The riser recoil system is to control the released energy in the event of an emergency disconnect
(EDS) event or upon failure of the marine drilling riser. The riser recoil system is required to be
activated as part of the emergency disconnect sequence. This is to be achieved through the
following:
i) Design of the marine drilling riser recoil system is to consider emergency situations, such
as EDS event, failure of marine drilling riser, during all phases of drilling operations.
ii) Riser recoil system is to complete an orderly and controlled shutdown of the riser
tensioning system to a predetermined safe position, regardless of the sea state.
13.3.3 Control Systems for Riser Tensioning System
i) Provisions for load monitoring are to be provided for the riser tensioning system.
ii) Any remotely-operated valve is to be equipped with a backup power source.
iii) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
iv) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
13.5 Marine Drilling Riser Global Analysis

The global riser analysis is to be performed and documented for the drilling site specific conditions. The
analysis and operation procedure are to be maintained by the owner and to be submitted to ABS if required
by Administration. The marine drilling riser system design is to be in compliance with the global analysis
results using site-specific loading conditions and API 16Q requirements during the operation. In addition,
local jurisdiction requirements may apply.
The analysis report is to demonstrate the parameters applied to and methodology including assumptions
made, and operation envelop. Refer to the ABS Guidance Notes on Drilling Riser Analysis for details.

13.7 Riser Operations Manual

Riser is required to be on an approved maintenance system (Refer to 8-1/11). In association with the
submitted maintenance program, an Operations, Maintenance and Inspection manual is required to be
submitted for review. The following items are to be included in the manual (API 16Q):
i) Manufacturer’s drawings of the riser system components

ii) Load ratings of the components
iii) Internal and collapse pressure ratings of the riser and integral lines
iv) Operation limits including emergency operation limits
v) Operation procedure for each mode
vi) Load monitoring and control
vii) Vessel motion and offset control
viii) Address safety and risk for operation
ix) Emergency response plan
x) Inspection and maintenance procedures for each component including method, frequency, criteria,
and timing
xi) Maintenance method and procedure
xii) Procedures for verification when removing from storage
xiii) Riser joint operation tracking method and requirement
xiv) Log for each joint including its position along the riser system and its operation history shall be
available for audit or review when requested

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 4
Derrick Systems (DSD)
1 General
The DSD notation comprises classification of the following systems, including their subsystems,
equipment, components, and associated control system:
● Conductor Tensioning System

● Drill String Compensation System
● Derricks/Mast
● Hoisting Equipment
● Riser Running Equipment
The DSD systems, equipment, and/or components are to be in compliance with the API standards shown in
2-4/Table 1, and the additional requirements of this Guide.
TABLE 1
Derrick System (DSD)
Conductor Tensioning System and Equipment CDS 2-4/3
Drill String Compensation System CDS 2-4/5
Derricks/Masts API 4F, 2INT-MET, 2 MET, ISO 19901-1
Hoisting Equipment API 8C, 7K, 7F, 9A
Riser Running Equipment API 16F
3 Conductor Tensioning System

Typical components of the conductor tensioning system equipment would include accumulators, control
systems/consoles/panels, hydraulic cylinders, HPU, piping, pressure vessels, sheaves, wire ropes, chains,
etc.

Section 4 Derrick Systems (DSD) 2-4
3.1 Conductor Tensioning System Equipment

The design of conductor tensioning system equipment and/or components is to be in accordance with the
applicable sections of this Guide.
i) Load-carrying parts are to be in accordance with design codes and standards as referenced in
2-4/9.7, as applicable
ii) Pressure vessels are to be in accordance with ASME Section VIII Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
and 2-7/5 of this Guide.
iii) Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders are to be in accordance with 2-7/5.3.
iv) Piping, flexible lines and hydraulic hoses are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
v) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
vi) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6.
3.3 Control Systems for Conductor Tensioning System

i) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
ii) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
5 Drill String Compensation System

Drill string compensation systems can be categorized as follows:
● Active heave compensation (AHC)

● Passive heave compensation (PHC)
5.1 Drill String Compensation Equipment

Typical components of the drill string compensation equipment, AHC and PHC, would include
accumulators, air/nitrogen compressors, air/nitrogen dryers, compensators, control systems/consoles/
panels, hydraulic cylinders, HPU, piping, pressure vessels, sheaves, wire ropes, etc.
Design plans and data are to include, but are not limited to, as applicable:
i) Theory of operation is to be included in design plans and data
ii) The backup braking system
iii) Computer/control redundancy studies
iv) Fast and dead line compensation
v) Traveling hose integrity
The design of these equipment and/or components is to be in accordance with the applicable sections of
this Guide.
5.1.1 Component Specific Requirements

i) Load-carrying parts are to be in accordance with design codes and standards as referenced
with 2-4/9.7, as applicable
ii) Locking mechanism is to be in accordance with design codes and standards as referenced
with 2-4/9.7
iii) If the locking mechanism is in the load path, it is to be in accordance with 2-4/9.7, as
applicable.
iv) Pressure vessels are to be in accordance with ASME Section VIII Boiler and Pressure
Vessel Code and 2-7/5 of this Guide.


vi) Piping, flexible lines and hydraulic hoses are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
vii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
viii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6.
5.3 Control Systems for Drill String Compensation

iii) Any remotely-operated valve is to be equipped with a backup power source.
7 Derricks/Masts
7.1 Recognized Codes and Standards

Except as provided below, the design and fabrication of drilling derricks/masts are to be in accordance with
API 4F and the additional requirements of this Guide.
The following derrick/mast structural components are considered to be primary load-bearing structures:
i) Upper section: crown shaft, main crown beam, main top beams/water table beams.
ii) Lower section: legs, "V" door beams, shoes, and girths above and attached to the "V" door beams.
iii) Main load path structural components.
Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide. Welding and NDE are to be in accordance
with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.
7.3 Design Loads

For structural design of the derrick/mast, design loads, definition of forces and loads, and applicable
loading conditions are to be in accordance with API 4F, and as specified below:
i) Structure failure consequences are to be categorized as medium or higher, as defined in API 4F for
the Structural Safety Level (SSL).
ii) The derrick design is to consider both fixed and pinned boundary conditions. The use of the actual
support stiffness (e.g., rotational and/or translational spring supports) based on results from
analysis of the supporting structure will be considered. However, when a complete model of the
derrick and drillfloor/substructure is generated to reflect the actual stiffness, then appropriate
boundary conditions applied at the drillfloor/substructures are to be considered. If the supports are
designed to release any degrees of freedom, this shall be reflected in the analysis.
iii) The Owner is required to specify the geographic region of operation, the static loads (dead weight,
hook load, static rotary load, fluid load, setback loads, etc.) and dynamic loads (inertial, dynamic
amplification, erection, transportation, wind, transit, motion, acceleration, seismic, etc.) on the
derrick/ mast, as required in API 4F. Additionally, the following loads are also to be given
consideration, where applicable:
a) The increase in dead load due to the accumulation of ice and snow
b) The wind-induced load is to be included in the design analysis of the derrick/mast
structure and is to consider the following, as applicable:
1) The use of wind speeds higher than those provided in API 4F, where required by
the Owner, for regions not specified within API 4F, ISO 19901-1, API 2INT, or
API 2 MET.

2) The minimum wind velocity for unrestricted offshore service for all normal
drilling and transit conditions is not to be less than 36 m/s (70 knots), as specified
in 3-1-3/1.3 of the ABS MOU Rules. It should be noted that wind velocities in
the ABS MOU Rules are 1 minute average velocities, and therefore these are to
be converted to 3 second gust velocities for use in the structural analysis of the
derrick.
For host structures other than mobile offshore drilling units, such as production
unit or fixed structure, the transit conditions are to be in compliance with the
ABS FPI Rules and ABS Facilities Rules.
3) For the ABS MOU Rules unrestricted service, the wind speed to be considered in
the Survival Case (no hook load or setback loads) is not to be taken less than 51.4
m/sec (100 knots). It should be noted that wind velocities in the ABS MOU Rules
are 1 minute average velocities and therefore these are to be converted to 3
second gust velocities for use in the structural analysis of the derrick.
4) If only the CDS notation is required, it is not mandatory to use wind velocity
higher than 51.4 m/sec (100 knots) for regional requirements as specified in API
4F, ISO 19901-1, API 2INT, or API 2 MET, unless required by the Owner.
When requested by Owner, higher wind velocity is to be used in accordance with

regional requirements as specified in API 4F, ISO 19901-1, API 2INT, or API 2
MET.
c) The use of a higher rated setback, where required by the operational demands of the
Owner.
d) Dynamic loading due to motion of the hull are to be provided, as specified below, by the
Owner as specified in API 4F for installation, transit, operation, survival condition of the
floating units, as applicable. The above conditions are not to be less than those specified
in the ABS MOU Rules, ABS Marine Vessel Rules, ABS Facilities Rules, ABS Barge
Rules, and ABS FPI Rules.
If information on the motion of the self-elevating hull is unavailable, the following are to
be used.
● Field Transit: 70 knots wind plus 6-degree single amplitude roll or pitch at the
natural period of the unit.
● Ocean Tow: 70 knot wind plus 15-degree single amplitude roll or pitch at a 10-second
period.
It should be noted that wind velocities mentioned above are 1 minute average velocities
and they are to be converted to 3 second gust velocities for use in the structural analysis
of the derrick.
1) For the calculation of dynamic loading induced by floating hull motion, the
vertical distance and the horizontal distance, where applicable, between the
center of flotation of the host drilling unit and the center of gravity of the derrick
are to be provided by the Owner to the derrick designer and are to be used in the
calculations.
2) The horizontal distance is to be considered in addition to the vertical distance in
the transit condition for self-elevating drilling units.
3) If motion analysis for floating structure is performed, the appropriate acceleration
data from the analysis are to be provided for ABS review.

7.5 Live Loads for Local Structure and Arrangements

i) The arrangement of members is to allow the free drainage of water from the structure.
ii) The following are the minimum vertical live loads that are to be considered in the design of
walkways:
● General Traffic Areas – 4,500 N/m2 (94 psf)
● Working Platforms – 9,000 N/m2 (188 psf)
● Storage Areas – 13,000 N/m2 (272 psf)
iii) Refer to 2-1/11 for guidance concerning regulatory body requirements.
7.7 Allowable Stresses

i) To prevent excessive stresses in structural members and connections, or buckling, reference is to
be made to the allowable stress limits given in the API 4F or other recognized industry standard.
ii) The extent to which fatigue has been considered in design is to be indicated in submitted design
documentation.
iii) For allowable stresses in plate structures, refer to 2-4/7.9.
iv) Consideration is to be given in stress calculations to confirm that maximum stress loads include
"Jarring Procedures".
7.9 Equivalent Stress Criteria for Plate Structures

i) For plate structures, members may be designed according to the Von Mises equivalent stress
criterion, where the equivalent stress, σeqv, defined as follows, is not to exceed Fy/F.S.
ii) The Factor of Safety (F.S.) will be specially considered when the stress components account for
surface stress due to lateral pressures.
σeqv = σx2 + σy2 − σxσy + 3τxy
2
where
σx = calculated in-plane stress in the x direction
σy = calculated in-plane stress in the y direction
τxy = calculated in-plane shear stress
Fy = manufacturer’s guaranteed minimum yield point
F.S. = 1.43 for static loading
1.11 for combined loading (includes dynamic loading)
7.11 Bolted Connections

i) Where bolted connections are used in the derrick, the design documentation, including torqueing
procedures, is to be submitted for ABS review.
ii) Bolted connections in the main load path such as on upper mast, foundation, and crown, etc. are to
be provided with a locking mechanism and bolted connections which can cause dropped object
hazards are to be provided with secondary retention or other mechanical means to mitigate drop
hazards.
iii) Bolted connection designs are to consider the following:
a) Fatigue assessment for derrick structures installed on Mobile Offshore Drilling Units
performed for welded connections only requires that all bolted connections are designed
as slip-critical connections. For Derrick bolted connections designed as bearing

connections only, fatigue assessment for both bolted and welded connections as
applicable is required.
b) All bolted connections should be designed as slip-critical connections. However, when
designed as bearing connections only, fatigue is required to be considered.
c) Design loading in accordance with 2-4/7.3.
d) Allowable stress in accordance with AISC.
e) Potential for dropped objects.
iv) Bolt tensioning procedures are to include, but not limited to, sequencing, torque loads, etc.,
depending on the bolt tightening procedure (e.g., Turn-of-Nut, Calibrated Wrench, etc.) as
applicable.
v) Bolt materials are to be selected with consideration to stress corrosion cracking, fatigue, marine
environment, etc., to recognized industry standards. Non-standard bolt materials will be subject to
special consideration.
vi) Regarding bolted connection designs, fatigue is to be considered as follows:
a) Bolted connections designed as slip critical
1) Fatigue assessment is only required for the welded connections as applicable
(e.g., brackets welded at the lower part of the legs, leg foundation welds, etc.)
where cyclic loading will occur.
2) Design of bolts in Slip-Critical Connections is to be carried out in accordance
with American Institute of Steel Constructions (AISC) or recognized industry
Standards
b) Bolted connections designed as bearing connections only:
1) Fatigue assessment for both bolted and welded connections as applicable is
required where cyclic loading will occur.
2) Design of bolts as bearing connections is to be carried out in accordance with the
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) or recognized industry
Standards
9 Hoisting Equipment
Typical components of the hoisting system would include the crown block with its support beams,
traveling block with its guide track and dolly, sheaves for the crown block and traveling block, deadline
anchors, drawworks, drilling hook, top drive, drilling line and sand line, drilling elevators and links,
hydraulic cylinders for overhead hoisting power swivel, power subs, adapters, bells, and rotary swivel,
wire rope and hoisting equipment gears.
9.1 Drawworks
i) Drawworks are to be provided with a minimum of two independent braking systems. Each of the
independent braking systems is to be designed for full-rated load at rated speed.
ii) At least one of the independent braking systems is to be of the mechanical type and of a fail-safe
design.
iii) The control systems including collision avoidance provisions are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
iv) Drawworks control is to be provided with deceleration parameters for upper and lower limits for
the traveling block/top drive to assist in stopping the load.
v) Drawworks construction is to comply with API 7F for chains and sprockets.
vi) All mechanical load-bearing components are to be in compliance with API 7K.

vii) The mechanical coupling between the drawworks drum and the electromagnetic brake is to be
provided with a system to prevent unintentional disengagement.
viii) Drawworks brakes and all other electrical power and control systems are to be suitable for the
intended hazardous area.
ix) The diameter of brake shafts is to be determined by the following equation:
6 2 2
d= bT + mM
n
b = 0 . 073 + Y
c1
m= c2 + Y
where (in SI (MKS and US units), respectively):
d = shaft diameter at section under consideration, mm (in.)

Y = yield strength (offset = 0.2%, ASTM E-8), kg/mm2 (psi)
T = torsional moment at rated speed, kg-cm (lb-in)
M = bending moment at section under consideration; N-m (kgf-cm, lbf-in)
k, n, c1, and c2 are constants given in the following table:
SI units MKS units US units

k 5.25 2.42 0.10
n 191.7 19.5 27800
c1 1186 121 172000
c2 413.7 42.2 60000
x) For hydrodynamic brake systems, detailed drawings and supporting calculations proving that the
proposed braking system is as effective as other drawworks braking systems are to be submitted
for review.
xi) Electromagnetic dynamic brake systems are to be arranged to prevent inadvertent failure of the
drawworks to suspend the derrick overhead load.
xii) Electromagnetic systems are to include the following provisions:
a) The system is to be provided with a backup power supply.
b) Cooling medium temperature and flow indicators and alarms for out of range conditions.
c) An automatically activated emergency stop system capable of applying full braking
torque to stop and provide a means for a controlled decent of the full rated load.
d) The Emergency Stop system is to be designed to automatically engage upon reduction of,
or loss of power, or when operation of the drawworks system is detected to be outside of
normal operating parameters.
e) A fault monitoring system that monitors either electrical faults within the system or the
kinetic energy of the traveling block is to be provided and provisions are to include the
following:
1) The system must be provided with a backup power source
2) Brake coil current

3) Monitors that initiate an emergency stop upon detection of a preset brake coil
current or a brake coil current varying in proportion to the driller’s control lever
position
4) Brake coil leakage current detector
5) Audible and visual alarms at the driller’s control panel to indicate when the
limiting parameters of the brake have been reached or when the emergency stop
system has been activated
6) In the case of AC motors using variable frequency drives for braking, an
abnormality in any of the connected drives is to alarm to the driller’s control
station
7) A manual emergency stop button is to be installed within reach of the driller
xiii) Drawwork designs, including drums and wire ropes, are to comply with the applicable part of
2-6/3.3.
xiv) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
xv) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
xvi) Gears and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7 and are to be suitable for their intended
service in terms of maximum power rating, service life and minimum operating temperature.
xvii) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 of this Guide.
xviii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
xix) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.
9.3 Power Swivels, Rotary Swivel, and Top Drives

i) Power swivels, rotary swivel and top drives are devices used to rotate the drill string other than by
means of the rotary table.
ii) Power swivels, rotary swivel and top drives are to be designed in compliance with API 8C and the
iii) Major mechanical load-bearing components are to be in accordance with the requirements of
2-4/9.7.
iv) The control systems including collision avoidance provisions are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
v) Pressure-retaining equipment is to be in accordance with the applicable requirements of 2-7/5.
vi) Electrical equipment is to be in accordance with the requirements of 2-7/7.
vii) Gears and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7 and are to be suitable for their intended
viii) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
ix) Materials for mechanical load-bearing or pressure-retaining equipment are to be in accordance
with the material traceability and toughness requirements of Chapter 5.
x) Welding and NDE are to be carried out in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
9.5 Safety Devices and Instrumentation

i) The hoisting systems are to have weight indicators installed and the display is to be easily read
from the driller’s console.

ii) Anti-crown collision/upper limits and lower limit safety devices are to be installed to prevent the
traveling block from contacting the crown block. These safety devices are to be designed to be
fail-safe.
iii) Testing intervals for the safety devices are to be agreed upon by the Owner, but is not to be less
frequent than as specified by the drawworks manufacturer.
iv) If override to the uppermost limit of travel is provided, it is to be part of the testing, accordingly.
v) Safety devices to prevent dropping of the load due to motor/shaft coupling slippage or functional
failure are to be provided.
vi) For minimum degrees of protection required for electrical equipment, refer to the requirements of
4-3-3/Table 1 of the ABS MOU Rules.
vii) Lighting fixtures and other equipment installed in the derrick are to be designed and suitably
secured against vibration and environmental design conditions to prevent dropped objects.
9.7 Hoisting Equipment Specific Requirements

i) Crown block, sheaves, traveling block, hook, tubular goods elevators and other overhead hoisting
equipment are to be designed in compliance with API 8C, API 4F as applicable, and the additional
requirements of this Guide.
ii) The results of the design verification testing if required in API 8C along with design calculations
for the component tested are to be submitted for ABS review with the design specification.
iii) Wire rope is to be designed in compliance with API 9A or equivalent.
iv) Main load-bearing weld connections are to be full penetration. Where partial-penetration or fillet
welds are utilized, validation through design and fatigue analyses, manufacturing process and
procedure qualifications (WPS and PQR) are required.
v) Gears, shafting and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7 and are to be suitable for their
intended service in terms of maximum power rating, service life and minimum operating
temperature.
vi) Bearings are to be suitable for the intended application. Bearings installed in the main hoisting
load path and/or intended for continuous service are to be designed to a recognized industry
standard. The design including the load spectrum and bearing life calculations are to be submitted
for review.
vii) Materials for mechanical load-bearing or pressure-retaining equipment are to be in accordance
with the material traceability and toughness requirements of Chapter 5.
viii) Welding and NDE are to be carried out in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
11 Riser Running Equipment

This Subsection provides the requirements for the following riser running and handling equipment:
● Manual riser running tools.
● Hydraulic riser running tools.
● Riser spiders.
● Riser gimbals.
● Equipment used to lift, run, retrieve, or support the riser string and BOP stack.
11.1 Design Loads

i) Riser hang-off spiders shall be rated to support the riser system and BOP stack at the drill floor
level.
ii) Equipment are to be designed for the loads and requirements as specified in API 16F

iii) The Running tool design shall be in accordance with the requirements of API 16F
iv) Pressure containing components shall be design in accordance with Chapter 4
v) Testing of the riser running and handling tools shall follow the requirements of API 16F
vi) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
vii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6 of this Guide, as applicable.

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 5
Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC)
1 General
The DSC notation comprises classification of the following systems, including their subsystems,
equipment, components, and associated control system.
● Bulk Storage and Transfer System

● Mud Return (Conditioning) System
● Well Circulation System
The Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC), equipment, and/or components are to be in compliance
with the standards shown in 2-5/Table 1 and the additional requirements of this Guide.
TABLE 1
Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC)
Bulk Storage and Transfer systems and Equipment CDS 2-5/3
Mud Return (Conditioning) System API 13C, ASME Section VIII Boiler and Pressure Vessel
Code
Well Circulation System ( High Pressure & Low Pressure) CDS 2-5/9, API 7K, ASME B31.3
3 Bulk Storage and Transfer Equipment

Typical components of the bulk (mud, cement, etc.) storage and transfer equipment would include bulk
storage vessels, utility/bulk air system, mixing station and transport or transfer piping.
i) All utility air piping is to be designed to be purged with dry air prior to transfer operations.
ii) The utility air transfer piping is to be fitted with relief valves set at a pressure not greater than the
working pressure of the bulk storage tanks.
iii) Bulk storage vessels are to be fitted with safety relief valves or rupture disks piped to a safe relief
area. Unless they are fitted with a relief line to an open area, the use of rupture disks is to be
limited to tanks installed in open areas.

Section 5 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC) 2-5
iv) A P&ID or equivalent schematic of the bulk transfer system is to be clearly posted at the operator
station to facilitate operation of the system during various bulk transfer operations.
v) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3, as applicable.
vi) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
vii) Piping systems and their components are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
viii) Materials used for bulk storage and transfer equipment are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
ix) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
5 Mud Return System and Equipment

Typical components of the mud return equipment would include agitators, chemical mixers, degassers,
desanders, desilters, centrifuges, mud pits, dump tanks, piping from degassers to burners or vents, piping
of mud return, shale shakers and trip tanks.
i) The mud circulating piping system is to be arranged so that the mud reconditioning system may be
run in series with the degasser, desander, desilter and centrifuge so as to prevent mud from
entering other piping systems.
ii) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
iii) Pressure-retaining equipment associated with mud return equipment is to be in accordance with
the requirements of 2-7/5.
iv) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
v) Piping systems and their components are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
vi) Materials used for mud return system and equipment are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
vii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
5.1 Degasser
Degasser design and arrangements are to comply with the requirements of API 13C and the additional
requirements of this Guide.
i) The degasser is to be designed and manufactured in accordance with ASME Section VIII Boiler
and Pressure Vessel Code and 2-7/5 of this Guide.
ii) Typically, the degasser is to be designed so that it can be operated under partial vacuum to assist in
removing the entrained gas.
iii) Provisions are to be incorporated to vent gas to a safe location.
iv) The degasser is to be placed as the first stage in the mud conditioning system to reduce the
possibility of gas breaking out of the drilling fluid in the mud treatment pits.
5.3 Mud Returns and Processing

The mud return system includes flowline, degasser, gumbo box, shale shaker, agitators, mud pit, mud
tanks, pumps, mixing tanks, hoppers, volume measuring systems, and if installed, desilter, desander and
cuttings handling equipment.
Mud return and processing systems, and associated equipment design and arrangements are to comply with
the requirements of API 13C and the additional requirements of this Guide.
i) The piping system design is to allow the returns from the flowlines to installed mud conditioning
equipment as listed above to the mud pit.

ii) The mud return system, associated equipment and piping systems are to be designed in accordance
with 2-7/5 and Chapter 4 of this Guide.
7 Well Circulation System and Equipment (Mud Circulation – HP & LP)

Typical components of the well circulation (including high pressure and low pressure) equipment would
include mud tank, mud pumps, charge pumps to pipe, pipe to kelly (rotary hose), vibratory hoses, mud
booster hoses, standpipe manifold, standpipe, standpipe to kelly hose, gooseneck, top drive/kelly, bottom-
hole assembly (BHA), BHA to flowline, flowline to shale shaker, degasser, desilter, desander.
The High pressure mud circulation would include Circulation Head, Gooseneck, Swivel, Mud Pump –
Power end, Fluid Ends – High Pressure, Pulsation Dampeners, HP Piping system, Standpipe Manifold,
Mud/Cement Hoses, Mud Pump Relief Valve, and associated control system.
The Low Pressure mud circulation would include – Bulk Tanks, Mud Tanks, Agitators, Mixing Hopper,
Low Pressure Piping, Mixing/Charging Pump, Degasser, Desander, Desilter, Gumbo Box, Mud Cleaner,
Shale Shaker, Trip Tank, and associated control system.
High-pressure mud pumps are to be fitted with safety relief valves whose maximum setting is no higher
than the maximum allowable pressure of the system.
i) Relief lines from the mud system are to be self-draining.

ii) Where rupture disk type pressure relief devices are installed, rupture disks are to be certified to
meet a recognized standard and the disk assembly is to be subjected to survey in accordance with
the manufacturer’s specifications.
iii) Rotary hoses in the well circulation system are to be designed and constructed in accordance with
4-2/7 of this Guide and API 7K.
iv) Piping systems and their components, and flexible lines are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
v) Materials used for well circulation systems and equipment are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
vi) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
7.1 Mud Pumps

The mud pumps specified in this Chapter are to comply with the following requirements:
i) Fluid ends, pressure-retaining components, and mechanical load-bearing components including,

but not limited to, gears, shafting, clevis linkages, gears of all types, keyways, splines, etc., are to
be in compliance with API 7K or equivalent recognized standard, and the additional requirements
of this Guide.
ii) Materials and Welding/NDE used for major pressure-retaining equipment of the fluid ends and
mechanical load-bearing components are to be in accordance with Chapters 5 and 6 of this Guide,
respectively.
iii) The fluid end and associated manifolds (suction and discharge) are to be hydrostatically tested as
required by 3-2/Table 8.
iv) Motor couplings and shafting are to comply with a recognized standard and be suitable for
intended service in terms of maximum power and minimum operating temperature.
v) The pumps are to be equipped with suitable vibration (pulsation) dampening devices.
vi) Installation of pulsation dampeners is not mandatory for cement pumps, when all of the following
conditions are met:
● Where cement can potentially plug the dampening devices,

● Fluid-ends, discharge piping, and supports are designed and installed to withstand pressure
pulsation and they are to be in accordance with recognized codes and standards, and
● Intermittent duty.
vii) Discharge high pressure piping to comply with ASME B31.3, or equivalent recognized standard,
and Chapter 4 of this Guide.
viii) Prime movers (electric motor or diesel) are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.
ix) Gears and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7.
7.3 Control System for Well Circulation Equipment

iii) All valves are to be provided with position indicators. See also 2-3/7.3ix).

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 6
Handling Systems (DSP)
1 General
The DSP notation comprises classification of the following systems including their subsystems,
equipment, components and associated control systems dedicated for drilling operations as follows:
● Lifting Equipment
● Handling Equipment
● Rotary Equipment
● Miscellaneous Equipment (e.g., power slips, tongs, catwalk, mechanical mousehole and any other
handling devices used to aid in the transfer of drilling tubulars and marine drilling riser between the
rotary table and storage areas).
The DSP systems, equipment, and/or components are to be in compliance with the API standards shown in
2-6/Table 1 and the additional requirements of this Guide:
TABLE 1
Handling Systems (DSP)
Dedicated Lifting Equipment API 2C, API 9A, API 9B, BS EN 12385 or equivalent
Handling Equipment API 7K
Rotary Equipment API 7K
Miscellaneous Equipment CDS 2-6/9
3 Lifting Equipment dedicated to Drilling Operations

Typical lifting equipment are cranes (gantry, king post, knuckle boom, bridge racker), base-mounted
winches, specialized automated handling equipment for lifting purpose, etc., that are used for pipe
handling, riser handling, LMRP handling, BOP handling, and for other lifting activities associated with
drilling operations.

Section 6 Handling Systems (DSP) 2-6
3.1 Cranes
i) Cranes are to be designed, constructed, and tested in accordance with the requirements of API 2C
or the ABS Lifting Appliance Guide or other recognized industry standards. When alternate codes
or standards are proposed, comparative analyses are to be provided to demonstrate an equivalent
level of safety to the recognized standards as listed in this Guide and to be performed in
accordance with Chapter 1, Section 6 of this Guide, on a case-by-case basis.
ii) Design loads of the crane winches are to be the maximum line pull based on the design loading or
the load created by dynamic braking, in accordance with the above design code. In either case, the
distribution of loading from the reeving system is to be taken into account.
iii) Drums and brakes are to be in accordance with API 2C or the ABS Lifting Appliance Guide.
iv) Wire ropes are to be in accordance with API 9A, API 9B, BS EN 12385, or equivalent.
v) Design loads of the crane cylinders are to be the loads applied by the crane boom(s), in accordance
with the design code. Allowable stresses or minimum scantlings are to be in accordance with ABS
Rules or other recognized standard.
vi) Design loading for crane accumulators and crane piping systems is the resultant pressure as a
result of the design loadings from the design code.
vii) Emergency brakes are to be of a fail-safe design.
viii) The control systems including collision avoidance provisions are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
ix) Where integrated software control systems are installed, collision avoidance provisions are to be
integrated into the design to provide safety to personnel and prevent collision damage to
equipment during drilling activities.
x) Hydraulic cylinder/Pressure vessels are to be in accordance with 2-7/5.
xi) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
xii) Gears and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7 and are to be suitable for their intended
xiii) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
xiv) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
xv) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
3.3 Base-mounted Winches and other Lifting Devices

i) Design loads considered in the design analyses are to include, as appropriate, the following:
a) Recommended single line pull at specified speed, drum size and layers of wire rope
b) Maximum load created by dynamic braking
c) Dynamics created by accelerations due to hoisting motion and drilling unit motion (where
applicable)
ii) Design Standards and Factors of Safety are to include the following:
a) Bases and other structural steel components are to be designed in accordance with AISC
or other recognized standard. Allowable stress for bending, tension, shear and buckling
are to comply with specifications contained herein.
b) Factors of safety and critical ratios for wire rope, drums, shafts and other parts are as
follows:
Load-carrying member allowable stress is to be no greater than the following:

F = Fcr /1 . 25 for flat members
= Fcr /1 . 55 for curved members
Fa = Fy /1 . 33 Fy /Fu < 0 . 7
= Fy + Fu /3 . 25 Fy /Fu > 0 . 7
Fs = 0 . 577Fa
where
F = allowable stress for buckling

Fa = allowable stress in tension or compression
Fs = allowable shear stress
Fy = material yield stress
Fu = material ultimate stress
Fcr = critical buckling stress
c) Wire rope for lifting application is to be rated in accordance with the ABS Lifting
Appliance Guide, API 9A, API 9B, BS EN 12385, or equivalent, as applicable.
d) In addition, any combined stresses are not to exceed Fa.
iii) Materials and Fabrication:
a) All mechanical parts where failure could terminate the load-carrying capabilities of the
systems are to be made of steel.
b) Use of ductile iron for gears and drums, and the use of aluminum for fabrication will be
specially considered.
iv) Winch drum design and capacity:
a) The drum capacity is to accommodate the recommended rope size and length necessary to
perform the function required for the load-handling equipment.
b) Plain or grooved drums will normally be considered acceptable, provided no less than
five (5) full wraps of rope remain on the drum with the load in its lowest possible
position. Other design specifications/standards will be subject to special consideration
based on calculations submitted to ABS.
c) Each drum end of the rope is to be anchored by a clamp attached to the drum, or by a
socket arrangement approved by the hoist or rope manufacturer, providing for attachment
of rope to the drum.
d) The drum flange is to extend a minimum distance of 2.5 times the diameter of the rope
over the outermost layer, unless additional means of keeping the rope on the drum are
provided (keeper plates, rope guards, etc.).
e) The diameter of the drum is to provide first layer rope pitch diameter of not less than 18
times the nominal diameter of the rope used.
f) Gears and couplings are to be in accordance with 2-7/9.7 and are to be suitable for their
intended service in terms of maximum power rating, service life and minimum operating
temperature.
g) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
h) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5, as applicable.

i) Welding, heat treatment and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
v) Wire ropes are to be constructed in accordance with a recognized standard applicable to the
intended service, such as API 9A, API 9B, BS EN 12385 or equivalent.
vi) Brake design:
a) A power control braking means such as regenerative, dynamic, counter torque braking,
controlled lowering or a mechanically-controlled braking means are to be provided and
are to be capable of maintaining controlled lowering speeds.
b) Brakes are to activate automatically upon loss of power or when the winch lever is
returned to neutral.
c) Brakes are to have the ability to stop and hold 100% of the design load with the outermost
layer of wire on the drum.
d) Thermal capacity of the brakes as outlined in the manufacturer’s ratings or charts is to be
suitable for the intended services.
e) Brake linings containing asbestos material are not to be used.
f) Documentation and calculations for the braking effect of the AC motors are to be
submitted when they are the only backup system to the disc brakes.
3.5 Lifting Attachments and Pad Eyes

The provisions of this Paragraph are applicable to lifting attachments and pad eyes that are permanently
mounted on to drilling equipment and are used for transfer of equipment onboard, and pad eyes that serve
as equipment foundations. For skid mounted equipment, refer to 2.7/11 for additional requirements.
i) Design loads and allowable stresses for lifting attachments and pad eyes are to be in accordance
with the applicable design criteria and procedures requirements of API 2A WSD or specified
design code and standard. The Safe Working Load is to be shown on the drawings and
permanently marked on lifting attachments that are subject to technical review.
ii) As far as practicable, lifting attachments are to be free from stress concentration points (e.g.,
geometric discontinuities, sharp weld edges, cuts and notches, etc.).
iii) Pad eyes used as permanent equipment foundations are to be reviewed.
iv) Lifting attachments used solely for the purposes of shop transfer, load out, transport, installation
and maintenance of equipment are not subject to these requirements.
v) Pad eyes installed on permanent structures for temporary use are not subject to these requirements.
vi) Load testing of lifting attachments is to be carried out in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1 and 2.
3.7 Safety Devices and Instrumentation

i) All winches are to be marked with the maximum permissible load allowed for the winch and its
system components.
ii) Where pneumatic winches are provided:
a) Air supply lines are to be sized to operate the winch at safe working loads (SWL).
b) Isolation provisions are to be provided for each winch at the flexible connection.
c) Motor exhaust is to be vented to a point where it will not present a hazard to personnel,
and noise reduction measures are to be utilized.
iii) Air regulators and pressure relief valves, located upstream of the non-return valves, are to be
provided to limit air supply pressure to the winch, and the supply lines serving the winches are to
be fitted with appropriate non-return valves and water separators/filters before the operating
valves.

5 Handling Equipment
5.1 BOP Handling Equipment

Typical components of the BOP handling equipment would include horizontal BOP/Christmas tree
transporter/skidders, seafixing, bulkhead guiding, handling cranes, etc.
i) BOP handling equipment is to be designed with consideration of loads, inertia, stability, pulling
requirements, etc.
ii) Emergency brakes are to be of a fail-safe design.
iv) Major load-bearing components including sheaves and bearings located in the primary load path
are to be in accordance with API 7K or other recognized industry standards. Refer to 2-4/9.7 of
this Guide.
vi) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7 of this Guide and the ABS MOU Rules.
vii) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
viii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide and the ABS MOU Rules.
ix) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
5.3 Tubular Handling Equipment

Typical components of the tubular handling equipment would include finger boards, pipe racking, racking
arms, stabbing boards, iron roughnecks, cranes, winches, and wire ropes, or any other handling devices
used to aid in the transfer of drilling tubulars and marine drilling riser between the rotary table and storage
areas.
i) The drilling rig is to be equipped with hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical equipment capable of
lifting, transporting, and suspending the drill pipe in the pipe rack, and making up or breaking out
the drilling pipe.
ii) Brakes are to be of a fail-safe design.
iv) All drill pipes, collars, tubing and casing that may be racked in the derrick are to have provisions
to remain secured in place.
v) All storage racks are to be designed to prevent drill collars, pipe and other tubulars from being
unintentionally released from the rack.
vi) Foundations and storage racks are to be designed to withstand the maximum anticipated setback
load of the racked pipe, drill collars and other intended loads.
vii) Storage racks are to be provided with appropriate drip pans and drains to direct mud and other
liquids to appropriate drain system.
viii) Major load-bearing components including sheaves and bearings located in the primary load path
are to be in accordance with API 2C, ISO, AISC or other recognized industry standards. Refer to
2-6/3.1 of this Guide for cranes.
ix) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
x) Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders are to be in accordance with 2-7/5.3.
xi) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with chapter 2-7/7.

5.5 Casing Stabbing Boards

5.5.1 Rails, Masts, Guides and Runners:
i) The rails and masts supporting the casing stabbing board are to be securely attached to
their supports, designed so that they are unable to open under operating conditions and
capable of supporting the casing stabbing board in the event of the operation of the safety
gear.
ii) The guides and runners are to be designed so that in the event of a roller or wheel failure,
the platform cannot become detached from the mast.
iii) Plates that are capable of supporting the weight of the fully loaded platform are to be
fitted at the bottom of the rail.
iv) Upper and lower limits are to be provided and tested before use.
v) A minimum of two safety harness attachment points must be provided.
5.5.2 Controls and Safety Provisions
i) The controls are to be arranged to stop the platform if the raising and lowering handle is
released.
ii) Two independent locking devices are to be provided. One locking device is to be engaged
when the lifting handle is in neutral and the second is to engage upon failure of the
hoisting system.
iii) Fail-safe upper and lower limit switches are to be provided, as applicable.
iv) All platforms are to be fitted with sufficient anchoring points for safety harnesses.
v) A non-slip surface is to be provided on the platform, and adequate handrails, midrails and
toe-plates are to be provided in accordance with Section 5-3-1 of the ABS MOU Rules.
vi) The platform is to be fitted with a lock latch mechanism that secures it when it is not in
motion.
vii) Additionally, adequate safety provisions are to be provided for the equipment. Safety
provisions are to be of the progressive type designed to be fully engaged within free fall
conditions.
viii) Where two-point operation is used, the operator station in the basket is to override the
remote.
ix) A safety override at the remote station is to be installed for use in the event that the work-
performing personnel are incapacitated
5.5.3 Raising and Lowering:
i) Lifting is to be arranged for both raising and lowering of the platform. The arrangement is
not to be such that it is possible to lower the platform by brake only.
ii) Means of lowering a person to the drill floor must be provided that will function in case
of failure of the normal lifting mechanism.
iii) A speed-controlling device is to be provided which is designed to prevent the raising and
lowering of the platform at speeds in excess of the tripping speed.
iv) The factor of safety for rope or chain is not to be less than 10:1.
v) If rack and pinion systems are used, they are to be designed so that the failure of either a
rack or pinion will not cause the platform to fall.
vi) The lifting system is to incorporate sufficient rope so that there are at least five (5) full
turns of rope remaining on the winding drum when the platform is at its maximum level.
vii) The equipment associated with the operation of the casing stabbing board is to be
securely anchored to the derrick structure.

viii) The anchorages for rope or chain are to be designed such that they will not be adversely
affected by corrosion.
7 Rotary Equipment
Typical components of rotary equipment include master bushing and the rotary table, including its skid
adapters and driving unit. The rotary table and its components are to comply with the following
requirements, as applicable:
i) All mechanical load-bearing components are to be in compliance with API 7K.

ii) Load-bearing beams are to be in accordance with 8-2-1/3.1 of the ABS MOU Rules and the
requirements for structural materials in Chapter 5 of this Guide.
iii) The rotary table transmission and associated motor couplings, shafting and brakes are to comply
with a recognized standard and be suitable for the intended service in terms of maximum power
and minimum operating temperature.
iv) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
v) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7.
vi) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
vii) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5.
viii) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable.
9 Miscellaneous Equipment
Typical components that can be categorized under miscellaneous equipment in the drilling system could
include power slips, mechanical mouseholes and any other handling devices used to aid in the transfer of
drilling tubulars and marine drilling risers between the rotary table and storage areas.
i) All tongs are to be capable of being securely attached to the derrick mast or back-up post and
anchored by appropriate means such as a wire rope line or stiff arm that will have a breaking
strength greater than the force exerted by the tongs.
ii) Safety lines on tongs are to be positioned in such a manner that the tongs cannot rotate beyond
anticipated limits.
iii) Power tong pressure systems are to be equipped with safety relief valves that are to be set no
higher than the maximum working pressure of the system.
iv) Safety cables attached to kelly hose, tongs and other suspended equipment are to be properly
secured to prevent their breaking loose in the event of a connection failure.
v) Major mechanical load-bearing components are to be in accordance with 2-4/9.7, as applicable.
vi) The control systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/3.
vii) Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders are to be in accordance with 2-7/5.3.
viii) Electrical systems are to be in accordance with 2-7/7 and the ABS MOU Rules.
ix) Piping systems are to be in accordance with Chapter 4.
x) Materials are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 and the ABS MOU Rules.
xi) Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with Chapter 6, as applicable

CHAPTER 2
Drilling Systems
SECTION 7
Common Requirements for WCS, DSD, DSC, and DSP Notations
1 General
This Section contains general requirements for Control Systems, Pressure-Retaining Equipment, Electrical
Systems and Equipment, Rotating Machinery, and Skid Mounted Equipment that form part of the drilling
system.
The contents of this Section are applicable to and are to be complied with for Well Control Systems
(WCS), Derrick Systems (DSD), Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (DSC), and Handling Systems
(DSP) notation requirements.
3 Control Systems
3.1 General
A control system is an assembly of devices interconnected or otherwise coordinated to convey command
or orders. Control system can be computer based, hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic,
acoustic, etc., or combination thereof. This section covers control systems for the drilling systems subject
to class in accordance with this Guide. Arrangements for housing the control systems (Driller Cabin, Dog
House or other enclosed control stations) are outside the scope of this Guide and are covered in the ABS
MOU Rules. For hazardous area consideration, refer to Section 4-3-6 of the ABS MOU Rules.
The requirements below apply to control systems for equipment and systems covered by this Guide.
i) The control system (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic, acoustic, etc.) is to be

designed where no single point control system failure is to lead to an unsafe situation.
ii) FMEA, FMECA or similar analysis is to be conducted in accordance with a recognized standard
in order to demonstrate compliance with the above design principles. See 2-2/3.5.
a) Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA). An FMEA is to be used to determine that
any component failure will not result in an unsafe situation through loss of control or
shutdown of the system or equipment being controlled, unless the shutdown process is
designed into the system in order to prevent an unsafe condition.
b) Failure Mode, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA). An FMECA is an extension of
the FMEA to include a criticality analysis that is used to identify the probability of failure
modes against the severity of their consequences.

Section 7 Common Requirements for WCS, DSD, DSC, and DSP Notations 2-7
c) FMEA/FMECA Validation testing procedures are to be developed and submitted for

review for testing the mitigating barriers of critical results and selected results identified
in the FMEA/FMECA process to demonstrate the ability of the controls to preclude an
unsafe situation. Validation tests are required to be carried out at the plant of manufacture
and/or as part of the on board commissioning and verified by the attending Surveyor. See
2-2/3.5 and Chapter 1, Section 7 for explanation of the terms “critical results”, “selected
results” and “unsafe situation”.
iii) Transfer between control stations is to comply with the following requirements:
(Not applicable to BOP, EDS, choke and kill, and diverter control systems
a) When control of the system or equipment is possible from more than one control location,
control is to be possible only from one control location at a time.
b) Clear method to transfer control between stations is to be provided.
c) At each control location, there is to be an indicator showing which location is in control.
iv) Maximum control system voltages: 250 VAC 50 Hz or 60 Hz or 250 VDC is to be the highest
voltage in any of the control system panels.
v) Visual and audible alarms are to be provided to indicate an alarm indicating an abnormal condition
of an electronically monitored parameter.
vi) Control panels are to be clearly labeled.
3.1.1 Logic Circuit Features
Logic circuits are to comply with the following principles:
i) When logic circuits are used for sequential startup or for operating individual
components, indicators are to be provided at the control console to show the successful
completion of the sequence of operations by the logic circuit and start-up and operation of
the component. If some particular step is not carried out during the sequence, the
sequence is to stop at this point.
ii) Manual override is to be fitted in vital functions to permit control in the case of failure of
a logic circuit.
3.1.2 Collision Avoidance
i) Collision Avoidance Systems are to maintain safety of personnel and prevent collision
between the equipment and personnel, fixed structures and other equipment during
drilling activities. Effective measures to achieve this objective are to be engineered for
operating in areas where such collision would be otherwise possible. The measures
should include but not limited to sensors, alarms, time-stamped command signals,
automated shutdowns and safety interlocks.
ii) Power actuating functions which are not fully manual operator control are to incorporate
Collision Avoidance Systems as applicable to satisfy the requirement of 2-7/3.1i) for all
operating modes.
Note: : Equipment designs can utilize combinations of manual and automated controlled functions.
iii) Computer automated control functions are to manage collision avoidance. Software
automated functions are to incorporate collision avoidance systems to satisfy requirement
2-7/3.1i) as applicable (i.e., when software automates a function and or coordinates
multiple movements.).
iv) Design details of collision avoidance systems are to be submitted by the designer/
integrator of the equipment package for review. The effectiveness of the collision
avoidance measures used is to be verified during commissioning of the equipment.

v) It is the operators’ sole responsibility to manage collision avoidance with manually

controlled functions and equipment.
3.3 Control Systems for Well control Equipment

Control systems for well control include the BOP, EDS, choke and kill and diverter control systems, as
applicable. These control systems are to comply with the following requirements:
i) The control system (hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, electro-hydraulic, acoustic, etc.) is to be

designed where no single control system component failure is to lead to a failure of the controlled
system, loss of control or loss of well control.
Shutdown of control systems for well control equipment is not permitted. With any single point of
failure, well control systems are to be sufficiently operational to prevent a loss of control, a loss of
well control, or any otherwise unsafe event. This at minimum applies to BOP, Diverter, and Choke
and Kill systems, and further applies to any additional control systems directly responsible for
maintaining well control.
ii) The control system and components are to be in compliance with API 16C, API 16D, API 53 and
with applicable recommended practices such as API 59 and API 64.
iii) See 2-3/3.3, 2-3/7.11, and 2-3/9.5 for control system requirements for individual well control
systems and/or equipment.
iv) Computer-based control systems for well control are to comply with the applicable requirements
in 2-7/3.
v) Computer-based control systems for BOPs are to also comply with the following additional
requirements:
a) Redundant processor, memory, and networks
b) Local and remote I/O modules are to fail in a predetermined fashion when there is loss of
communications with the processor.
c) Input and Output channels are to be diagnostic type, where the program will read the
diagnostic status of the I/O and perform safe actions. The program is to notify the
operator if a channel fails
vi) Alternative arrangements can be specially considered for surface BOPs, instead of redundant
components, provided it can be demonstrated that the computer-based control system complies
with the single control system component failure principle denoted in 2-7/3.3i).
For example, an arrangement with a single processor does not comply. However, an arrangement
with a single processor along with additional arrangements that address the possible single control
system component failure concept can be specially considered. This special consideration is
subject to ABS review of the supporting documentation.
vii) FMEA, FMECA or similar analysis is to be conducted in accordance with a recognized standard
in order to determine compliance with the design principles of Chapter 2, Section 3, 2-7/3.1 and
2-7/3.2. The FMEA Guidance Notes provides guidance on applicable industry standards and the
FMEA process.
viii) The control systems are to be provided with additional measures to prevent accidental
disconnection of the wellhead connector, the LMRP connector or the riser connector, such as two-
hand function, two-step action, protective cover or equivalent.
ix) For BOP control systems where functions are executed manually, only visual indicators are
required.
x) With any single point of failure, BOP control systems are to be capable of performing safe actions
to secure the well and disconnect, as applicable, using primary methods of control, without

resorting to secondary or emergency control systems (i.e., deadman/autoshear, ROV intervention,

etc.).
3.5 Electrical Control Systems and Computer-Based Systems

3.5.1 Electrical Control Systems
Electrical control systems are to comply with 4-9-2/3.1 and 4-9-2/7 (except 4-9-2/3.1.5) of the
ABS Marine Vessel Rules. For general definitions, 4-9-1/5 of the ABS Marine Vessel Rules may
be used, as applicable.
3.5.2 Computer-based Systems

A computer-based system is a system of one or more microprocessors, associated software,
peripherals and interfaces. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems
(DCS), PC or server-based computation systems are examples of computer-based systems.
Computer-based systems are to comply with the requirements of this Guide and 4-9-3/5 (except
4-9-3/5.1.4 and 4-9-3/5.1.8) of the ABS Marine Vessel Rules.
In addition, computer-based systems are to comply with the following:
i) Fail Safe: Computer-based systems are to be designed such that any of the system’s
components will not cause unsafe operation of the system or equipment being controlled.
ii) FMEA/FMECA: Additional detailed FMEA, FMECA or similar analysis is to be
conducted in accordance with a recognized standard in order for the computer-based
systems covering all components to determine compliance with the design principles of
this section.
iii) Safety Integrity:
a) When computer-based systems have safety-related control functions and the
associated failure modes identified in the FMEA/FMECA result in an unsafe
situation, special consideration may be given, provided the appropriate level of
safety integrity has been provided.
b) The appropriate level is to be determined by the application of a recognized
industry standard, such as the IEC 61508 Series or the ANSI/ISA 84 Series.
c) Documentation in accordance with the relevant industry standard is to be
submitted for review to justify the appropriate safety integrity levels.
d) Means are to be provided to record and track revisions and document any
subsequent changes to the FMEA content. Any significant modification to the
software or hardware which influences the safety and/or functionality of the
system is to be submitted for approval.
iv) System Security: Computer-based systems are to be protected against unintentional or
unauthorized modification of software. System Securities are to be identified and
(performance & requirement) specifications are to be defined.
3.7 Safety Functions – Equipment

All control systems are to comply with the following requirements:
i) Means are to be provided to indicate the cause of the safety action.

ii) Alarms are to be given at each control location, including any local manual control positions when
the system performs a safety action.
iii) Drilling systems or equipment shut down by a safety action is to be designed not to restart
automatically, unless first actuated by a manual reset.

iv) All shutdowns are to be executed in a predetermined logical manner, as specified in the “shutdown
logic” and/or “shutdown cause and effect charts”, and are to:
a) Limit the severity of the incident
b) Protect personnel
c) Limit environmental impact
v) Shutdown systems are not to result in adverse cascading effects.
vi) The shutdown systems are to be designed such that when a shutdown is activated, any ongoing
operations can be terminated without leading to an unsafe situation.
5 Pressure-Retaining Equipment
5.1 Pressure Vessels

Pressure vessels are considered to be accumulators, heat exchangers, pulsation dampeners, separators (oil/
gas), mud-gas separators, and degassers.
i) Pressure vessels are to be designed, constructed, and tested in accordance with ASME Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Div. 1 or Div. 2. Alternative design codes and standards will be
specially considered by ABS with justifications in accordance with Chapter 1, Section 5 of this
Guide.
ii) Pressure vessels utilized in drilling systems are to be submitted for ABS approval in accordance
with 6-1-5/1.1 of the ABS MOU Rules.
iii) For the purpose of specifying the degree of survey and testing during the ABS approval process,
pressure vessels are to be categorized in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1 and 2.
iv) The design is also to be such that stresses due to acceleration forces arising out of the motion of
the installation, stresses due to external nozzle loads and moments, and stresses due to any other
applicable external forces, such as winds, are within the limits allowed by the design code.
v) All pressure vessels, accumulators, heat exchangers, and separators are to be suitably supported
and properly secured to skid structure or rig floor.
vi) Materials of manufacturing for pressure vessels are to be in accordance with the specified design
code and Chapter 5, and appropriately selected for the intended service.
vii) Welding and NDE for pressure vessels are to be in accordance with the specified design code and
Chapter 6.
5.3 Hydraulic Cylinders

Hydraulic cylinders are to comply with the following requirements:
i) Design and manufacturing are to be based upon the strength criteria of the ASME Boiler and
Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Div. 1 or Div. 2, National Fluid Power Association or other
recognized standards.
ii) Hydraulic cylinders in critical load path and/or applications are to be submitted for ABS approval
in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1 and 2.
iii) Hydraulic cylinders that are in service as load bearing components on overhead lifting or hoisting
equipment are to comply with 2-4/9 and 2-6/3, as applicable.

7 Electrical Systems and Equipment
7.1 References
Electrical systems and equipment are to comply with Part 4, Chapter 3 of the ABS MOU Rules and are to
comply with API 14F, API 14FZ or IEC 61892, as applicable.
i) Compliance with industry standards, such as the following, will be specially considered:
● API 500
● API 505
● API 2003
● IEC 61892
● IEEE C37.06.1
● IEEE C37.20.6
● IEEE Std. 45
● IEEE Std. 142
● IEEE Std. 242
● NFPA Std. No. 70
● NFPA Std. No. 496
ii) All electrical components are to be designed to meet safe operating conditions by accounting for
maximum and minimum temperatures and vibrations expected during service.
iii) Electrical equipment installed in a hazardous area is to be certified by an independent testing
laboratory as suitable for the intended hazard.
9 Rotating Machinery
9.1 Internal Combustion Engines

Internal combustion engines are to comply with the following requirements:
i) Engines are to be in accordance with the requirements for engines intended for essential services
as required in 4-1-2/1.1 and Section 6-1-3 of the ABS MOU Rules.
ii) Engines’ installations are to be in accordance with NFPA Std. No. 37.
iii) The recommended service applications together with curves showing the recommended maximum
standard brake horsepower within the recommended speed range for each service are to be
submitted.
9.3 Rotating Electrical Machinery

Electrical machinery (rotating) are to comply with the following requirements:
i) All rotating machines (if any) 100 kW (135 hp) and above are to be of an ABS-approved design in
accordance with the ABS MOU Rules, tested in the presence of and inspected by the Surveyor,
preferably at the plant of the manufacturer.
ii) All rotating machines having a rated power of less than 100 kW (135 hp) and used in the critical
load path are to be designed, constructed and tested in accordance with established industrial
practices and manufacturer’s specifications. ABS is to review the design and acceptance will be
based on manufacturer’s affidavit stating compliance with a recognized standard. The test
certificates are to be made available when requested by the Surveyor. Acceptance of machines will
be based on satisfactory performance after installation.

iii) For machines of less than 100 kW (135 hp), are to be designed, constructed and tested in
accordance with established industrial practices and manufacturer’s specifications. Acceptance
will be based on manufacturer’s affidavit stating compliance with a recognized standard. The test
certificates are to be made available when requested by the Surveyor. Acceptance of machines will
be based on satisfactory performance after installation.
9.5 Hydraulic motors

Hydraulic motors are to comply with the following:
i) Hydraulic motors located in the critical load path are to be meet recognized industry standards and
submitted for review. The test certificates are to be made available when requested by the
Surveyor. Acceptance of machines will be based on satisfactory performance after installation.
ii) Hydraulic motors located in a non-critical load path are to meet recognized industry standards.
Acceptance of such hydraulic motors will be based on manufacturer’s affidavit stating compliance
with a recognized industry standard. The test certificates are to be made available when requested
by the Surveyor. Acceptance of machines will be based on satisfactory performance after
installation.
9.7 Gears, Shafts and Couplings

Gears shafts and couplings are to comply with the following requirements:
i) All gears, shafts and couplings in the critical load path having a rated power of 100 kW (135 hp)
and over are to be designed, constructed, certified and installed in accordance with AGMA, ISO or
equivalent. ABS is to review the design and the parts are to be constructed under the attendance of
the Surveyor.
ii) All gears, shafts and couplings having a rated power of less than 100 kW (135 hp) and used in the
critical load path are to be designed, constructed and equipped in accordance with good
commercial and marine practice. ABS is to review the design and acceptance of such gears will be
based on the manufacturer’s affidavit, verification of gear nameplate data and subject to a
satisfactory performance test after installation conducted in the presence of the Surveyor.
iii) All gears, shafts and couplings regardless of rated power and not in the critical load path are to be
designed, constructed and equipped in accordance with good commercial and marine practice.
Acceptance will be based on manufacturer’s affidavit stating compliance with a recognized
standard, verification of gear nameplate data and subject to a satisfactory performance test after
installation conducted in the presence of the Surveyor.
11 Skid mounted Equipment
11.1 General (1 July 2018)

A typical list of skid-mounted equipment associated with drilling systems operation includes, but is not
limited to, the following:
● Utilities and instrument air

● Chemical injection
● Nitrogen generation and charging
● Hydraulics/Pneumatic power units (HPU)
● Sea water
● BOP test pumps
● BOP and/or Diverter control test units
● Portable skids

● Cementing skid
Skid-mounted equipment for drilling operations is to comply with the applicable sections of this Guide
covering electrical systems and controls, pressure retaining equipment, Piping, materials and NDE.
Note: Containers and associated lifting sets used solely for shipping or transferring equipment to the unit are not subject
to the requirements of this Section. The ABS Guide for the Certification of Offshore Containers may be applied
for these items outside the scope of these Rules.
11.3 Skid Structures

Skid structures used as permanent foundations for fixed equipment and for use in portable applications on
board in the course of drilling operations including the lifting attachments are to comply with the following
requirements:
i) Skid structures for drilling system equipment packaged units are to be sufficiently rigid to support
any mounted equipment and piping and, as required, to permit lifting during shipment without
damage to the equipment or piping.
ii) Structural design calculations for skid units with a center of gravity height of more than 1.5 m (5
ft), or a maximum operating weight in excess of 10 MT (metric tons) or 22.05 Kips, calculated in
dry conditions, are to be submitted for review.
iii) Permanently installed lifting attachments on the skid structures subject to design review, which are
designed to lift only the skid unit with associated installed equipment, are to be designed in
accordance with the requirements of a recognized industry standard. Lifting attachments are
subject to design review and fabrication inspection, testing and marking. Load testing of lifting
attachments is to be carried out in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1 and 2.
iv) Lifting attachments installed only to facilitate handling for transport and permanent installation are
not subject to these requirements.
Skid structures that do not require ABS review will be accepted based on Manufacturer’s Affidavit of
Compliance (MAC).
11.5 Drip Pans

Drip pans on permanently installed skids and portable skids are to comply with the following
requirements:
i) Drip pans are to be able to contain liquid spills and leaks from skid-mounted equipment and
piping, and to drain the liquid with adequate slope of 1 cm per meter (0.125 inch per foot) into
open drain systems.
ii) A minimum 150 mm (6 in.) coaming around the entire perimeter of a skid is to be provided.
iii) Spill containment with less than 150 mm (6 in.) coaming arrangement is subject to special
consideration (see Chapter 1, Section 5, “Alternatives”).
iv) Calculations of spillage containment capacity for the skid are to be submitted for consideration.
v) Skid beams that extend above the drip pan may be considered as meeting the coaming
requirement, provided that the drip pan is seal-welded to the skid beams.
vi) Where shipyard installed coamings will be provided to meet these requirements for permanently
installed skids, same is to be noted on the skid drawings submitted for review.

CHAPTER 3
Scope of Drilling System and Equipment Approval
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General................................................................................................90
1 General......................................................................................... 90
SECTION 2 Approval Process.............................................................................. 91

1 General......................................................................................... 91
3 Design Review..............................................................................92
3.1 Product Design Assessment (PDA) (Optional)................ 93
3.3 Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)................93
3.5 Extension of Approval......................................................93
5 ABS Survey.................................................................................. 93
5.1 Survey at Vendor's Plant..................................................93
5.2 ABS Marking on Finished Components and Equipment..94
5.3 Survey during Installation and at Commissioning............94
7 Issuance of Certificates and Reports............................................95
7.1 ABS Approval Letter and Survey Reports....................... 95
7.3 IRC and CoC................................................................... 95
7.5 Individual Equipment Approval: Non-Class Installation... 95
9 Project Management and Vendor Coordination Program............. 96
TABLE 1 Common Equipment and Components (Design Review/

Survey).................................................................................97
TABLE 2 Common Equipment and Components (Testing)............... 100
TABLE 3 Well Control Systems (CDS-WCS notation) (Design
Review /Survey)................................................................. 103
TABLE 4 Well Control System (CDS-WCS notation) (Testing)......... 108
TABLE 5 Derrick Systems (CDS-DSD notation) (Design Review/
Survey) .............................................................................. 113
TABLE 6 Derrick Systems (CDS-DSD notation) (Testing) ................116
Table 7 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (CDS-DSC
notation) (Design Review/Survey)......................................120
TABLE 8 Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (CDS-DSC
notation) (Testing).............................................................. 122

TABLE 9 Handling Systems (CDS-DSP notation) (Desgn Review/
Survey)...............................................................................124
TABLE 10 Tubular Handling Systems (CDS-DSP notation) (Testing).126

CHAPTER 3
SECTION 1
General
1 General
This Section provides detailed procedures for ABS approval of typical drilling systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components for Classification of drilling system, that require design approval and
survey in accordance with Chapter 3, Section 2, Tables 1 through 10.
i) 3-2/Tables 1 through 10 are provided as a general reference listing, and are not to be considered as
the complete drilling system, subsystem, equipment or component listing.
ii) For drilling systems, subsystems, equipment or components not listed, the designer/manufacturer
is to contact the appropriate ABS Technical office for guidance on the approval process.
iii) ABS is prepared to consider alternative design methodology and industry practice for drilling
system, subsystems, equipment, and/or component designs, on a case-by-case basis, with
justifications through novel features as indicated in Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide.
iv) It is recommended to schedule a kick-off meeting at beginning of each project between the
manufacturer/fabricator and ABS Engineering office engineer/project manager in order to:
● Confirm and/or establish the main point of contacts (PoC) for the design review.
● Confirm submission requirement for design review and manufacturing and testing including
specifications, drawings and/or documentation associated with the design manufacturing and
testing processes.
● Review project design, manufacturing and delivery schedules.
● Review sub-contractors and their role in the classification process associated with the system
or components.
The above list is not all inclusive and the kick off meeting is not limited to the above.

CHAPTER 3
SECTION 2
Approval Process
1 General
ABS approval of drilling systems, equipment, and/or components is to be in accordance with the
applicable codes and/or standards regarding design, fabrication, and testing, and is also to comply with the
i) Drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components, including drilling support systems,
are to be approved according to the following general procedures:
a) Design plans and data are to be submitted in accordance with this Section and Appendix
7.
b) ABS design review for issuance of the following documents (see 3-2/3):
1) ABS Design Review/Approval Letter or PDA (optional) (see 3-2/7.1 and 3-2/
Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9)
2) Independent Review Certificate (IRC) (see 3-2/7.3, 3-2/Table 3, and Appendix
3), as applicable
c) ABS survey at plant (see 3-2/5.1), and at installation and commissioning (see 3-2/5.3), as
applicable, for issuance of the following documents:
1) Survey Report (see 3-2/7.1, 3-2/Tables 1 through 10, and Appendix 5)
2) Certificate of Conformance (CoC) (see 3-2/7.3, 3-2/Table 3, and Appendix 4), as
applicable
ii) The issuance of reports and certificates by ABS is to be in accordance with 3-2/7 and Appendices
3, 4 and 5.
iii) Approval of individual or unit equipment and/or components are typically combined toward the
approval of complete systems or subsystems.
iv) ABS design review, survey, and the issuance of applicable reports or certificates constitute the
ABS Classification of the drilling system inclusive of the subsystems, equipment and components.

Chapter 3 Scope of Drilling System and Equipment Approval
Section 2 Approval Process 3-2
3 Design Review
Drilling systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components that require ABS design review and
subsequently an ABS approval letter, and an IRC, as required for ABS Classification, are listed in 3-2/
Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, and are detailed throughout this Guide.
i) ABS design review verifies that the design of systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components
meets the requirements of this Guide and the specified design codes, standards, or specifications,
as applicable.
ii) For vessel-specific design review, a submitted design is to be in accordance with the requirements
of this Guide and the latest edition(s) of the specified codes and standards, as referenced herein
and in Appendix 1, in effect on the vessel contract date (see 1-3/3).
iii) For the purposes of non-vessel-specific equipment design reviews, the submitted design is to be in
accordance with the requirements of the latest Guide and the latest edition(s) of the specified
codes and standards, as referenced herein and in Appendix 1 of this Guide, in effect on the date of
submission to ABS.
iv) In cases where the contracting party intends to issue a purchase order to, or otherwise contracts the
equipment manufacturer for supply of the equipment specifying earlier edition(s) of the specified
codes and standards, the designer/manufacturer needs to contact the ABS Technical office for
clarification as these will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Information on the applicable vessel
contract dates and/or intended destination will be needed.
v) Stock/spare replacement components manufactured for equipment covered under pre-existing
design approvals will not require resubmittal to the ABS Technical office, provided the design of
the replacement components is unchanged. ABS Survey is to be contacted regarding stock/spare
parts as certain components and integrations require tracking and testing to maintain ABS
Certification.
vi) Vessel-specific design reviews must be performed for systems which are non-transferrable,
customized to the rig and/or are permanently installed on the rig.
vii) System-level and equipment design reviews in which subsystems and equipment have individual
ABS approval requirements defined by 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, will ensure that manufactured
and/or purchased subsystems and equipment under the overall system scope of supply are ABS-
Approved according to 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, and the additional requirements of this Guide
during the top-level design review.
viii) Top-level approval letters, IRCs, and/or PDAs will list all subsystem and equipment approvals
under the scope of supply, together with their associated ABS Reference numbers. Therefore, it is
the responsibility of the contracting party to ensure that manufactured and/or purchased
subsystems and equipment are ABS-approved according to 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, and the
additional requirements of this Guide. Evidence of ABS approval is to be provided with the top-
level design review submission.
ix) The manufacturer is to provide manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance in accordance with 3-2/3.3.
x) Upon satisfactory completion of the design review process, ABS will issue an ABS Approval
Letter/PDA, and an IRC, as applicable in accordance with 3-2/7 and 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9.
xi) ABS is prepared to consider manufacturer’s exception(s) to part(s) or section(s) of this Guide
and/or the specified codes, and standards for drilling equipment and/or components, on a case-by-
case basis, with justifications through:
● Stress calculations/analysis
● Finite element modeling/analysis testing
● Historical performance/experience data
● Novel features, as indicated in Chapter 1, Section 5

In this case, the manufacturer must provide details of the exception(s) to part(s) or section(s) of recognized
design standards in the “Design Basis” submittal, as referenced in Appendix 7 and clearly stated in detail
on the manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance as specified in 3-2/3.
3.1 Product Design Assessment (PDA) (Optional)

i) For equipment or components listed in 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, which have PDAs available,
the ABS design review and ABS approval letter are not required.
ii) It is to be noted that no changes can be made to the design details on the PDA from the date of
issuance. Any design changes will require a revision to the PDA.
iii) Manufacturer/designers with existing PDAs for other equipment or components, not specified in
3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, will be specially considered.
3.3 Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)

i) Manufacturers are required to provide a written affidavit of compliance stating that their products
are designed, manufactured, assembled and tested in accordance with specified codes, standards,
or specifications, and the additional requirements of this Guide, as applicable. The codes,
standards or specifications must be stated in the manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance.
ii) The manufacturer’s affidavits of compliance are to accompany the systems, subsystems or
equipment placed onboard drilling units and are to be verified by Surveyors prior to final
Classification of the drilling system.
iii) See Appendix 2 for an example of manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance and its contents.
3.5 Extension of Approval

i) If drilling systems and equipment have been previously approved by ABS, the manufacturer can
request extension of approval for a new project (vessel specific), clearly stating that no changes
have been made to the equipment and/or components from the previous approval. If the new
vessel(s) are contracted to later versions of the ABS Rules, Guides, and/or standards referenced
therein, documentation justifying compliance with the new requirements will need to be
submitted, as applicable. If changes are made to the previously approved design, refer to 3-2/3 of
this Guide.
Upon completion of the review of the requested extension, an approval letter will be issued for the
new vessel specific project.
ii) If changes are made from previously approved systems and equipment, documentation identifying
and justifying the changes, as well as any documentation that supersedes or replaces previously
approved documentation is required to be submitted for ABS review and approval.
5 ABS Survey
5.1 Survey at Vendor's Plant

i) Surveyor’s attendance is required at the plant of manufacturing for drilling system, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components approval, as indicated in 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9, and in
accordance with Chapter 7, Section 2.
ii) In 3-2/Tables 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, and Appendix 7, Table 1, “Factory Acceptance Testing” is to be
performed for the system/subsystem/equipment/component level as required by the design codes
and standards, and as specified in this Guide. This is to include, but not limited to, as applicable:
a) Prototype testing, as required by the design codes or manufacturer specifications
b) Hydrostatic pressure test
c) Load testing

d) Post-test NDE
e) FMECA verification trials
f) Function testing
iii) Test procedures are required for testing of CDS systems and equipment as required by this Guide,
and are to be submitted to the ABS technical office in association with the design review. Test
procedures are to include procedures for design validation testing per the design specification and
the testing to be carried out both during and at completion of manufacturing and for installation/
commissioning on board, where applicable. All testing is required to be completed prior to
issuance of the CDS Classification. Test procedures requiring submittal include, but are not
limited to the following:
a) Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs)
b) Factory Integration Tests (FITs)
c) System Integration Tests (SITs)
d) Commissioning Procedures
e) FMECA Verification test Procedures
f) Any additional test procedures as identified during the design review.
iv) Where final testing requires assembly and installation on-board a facility, a partial survey report
will be issued by the attending Surveyor for the work and partial testing completed at the
manufacturing facility. After final testing on board, the attending Surveyor will issue the final
survey reports or CoC as applicable.
5.2 ABS Marking on Finished Components and Equipment (2021)

All finished component/equipment issued with unit certificates are to be permanently marked at an
accessible location for identification and traceability. The identification shall include but not limited to the
model number or part number, serial number and other data that may be necessary to comply with any
other ABS Rule requirements.
At the request of the manufacturer, an ABS Marking may be applied. The marking shall include the ABS
mark (✠) and a unique identification number generated by ABS.
An example of ABS marking: ✠ 123456.
Markings are to be permanently marked (i.e. steel-die-stamped, laser etched, etc.) at an accessible location
by the manufacturer on each finished component or equipment.
ABS Certificates for the components and equipment are to be provided to the responsible party (e.g. owner
or shipyard) and Surveyor at installation.
5.3 Survey during Installation and at Commissioning

i) ABS Survey for the installation and commissioning of drilling systems is to be performed in
accordance with Chapter 7, Sections 3 and 5 and in accordance with the approved test plans.
ii) In 3-2/Tables 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10, “On Board Testing” typically covers the testing of the assembled
or integrated systems/subsystems/equipment/component. This is to include, but not limited to, as
applicable:
a) Hydrostatic pressure test to rated working pressure
b) Functional testing
c) Load test to the rated load of the assembled unit
d) FMEA/FMECA trials

7 Issuance of Certificates and Reports
7.1 ABS Approval Letter and Survey Reports

i) Upon satisfactory completion of the ABS design review process, based on design plans and data
as specified in Appendix 7, an ABS approval letter will be issued for the components indicated in
3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9.
ii) The ABS approval letter will describe the scope and results, including any applicable comments
and correspondences for the design review performed of the submitted design plans and data, and
the specified engineering criteria. The approved rating and/or capacity will be indicated for each
system, subsystem, equipment or component in the ABS approval letter.
iii) Upon satisfactory completion of fabrication, testing and commissioning as applicable, the
attending Surveyor will issue appropriate survey report(s) (SR) for all survey activities as
specified in 3-2/Tables 1 through 10, and Chapter 7.
7.3 IRC and CoC

i) Upon satisfactory completion of the ABS design review process and issuance of the ABS approval
letter, based on the design plans and data as specified in Appendix 7 for critical well control
equipment or components, an Independent Review Certificate (IRC) will be issued when indicated
in 3-2/Table 3, in conjunction with the ABS approval letter.
ii) The IRC will describe the scope and results of the design review performed by ABS for the
submitted design plans and data, and the specified engineering criteria. The approved rating and/or
capacity will be indicated for each system, subsystem, equipment or component covered by the
certificate. IRCs are issued for equipment model/part number.
iii) At the discretion of the ABS Technical office, an IRC may be issued for equipment not requiring
an IRC if specifically requested by the manufacturer, the owner or the purchaser. For this purpose,
IRCs apply to equipment reviews and are not issued for assemblies (example: BOP stack) made
up of equipment requiring dedicated approvals.
iv) Upon issuance of an ABS approval letter, an IRC, and satisfactory completion of the required
testing and survey, a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) will be issued when indicated in 3-2/Table 3.
v) The CoC will affirm that, at the time of assessment and/or survey, the systems, subsystems,
equipment, and/or components met the applicable codes and standards, and the requirements of
this Guide with respect to design, manufacturing and testing.
a) CoCs are issued for each individual equipment manufactured/fabricated, based on
equipment serial number, and
b) CoCs are to be correlated to the IRC for the specific equipment model/part number.
vi) Appendix 3 and Appendix 4 provide examples of IRC and CoC, respectively.
vii) The contents of the IRC and CoC are to be specific to the equipment and its respective design
parameters.
7.5 Individual Equipment Approval: Non-Class Installation

If specifically requested by the manufacturers, Owner, or designers, ABS can provide approval of
individual equipment or components associated with drilling systems or subsystems in accordance with the
requirements of this Guide, and where the installation unit may not be classed with ABS.
i) The individual equipment approval processes are outlined in 3-2/3.

ii) The final installation and commissioning surveys, as outlined in this are the responsibility of the
requesting party.

9 Project Management and Vendor Coordination Program

CDS Classification projects are to be coordinated through the ABS Project Management and Vendor
Coordination Program in order to facilitate the efficient progression of the ABS technical and survey
approval processes. The contracting party is required to contact the respective ABS division office where
project coordination will take place for guidance on the process, primary contacts and role responsibilities.
i) At the initiation of the project, the contracting party (Builder/ Shipyard/ Owner) is to provide a list
of equipment that will make up the CDS Class project using this Guide for reference.
ii) The suppliers and associated expected delivery dates are to be provided by the contracting party
upon issuance of the purchase orders for the listed equipment.
iii) The listing of CDS equipment will be made available to the key personnel associated with the
project.
iv) Milestone tasks in the coordination project will be developed by the ABS Division office lead and
contracting party together with roles and responsibilities to assure each milestone is achieved and
communications are maintained. Upon completion of each task the responsible team member is to
update the Division Office lead for updating the program data. Deviations from the plan are to be
advised to the ABS Division office and communicated to all stakeholders in order to minimize
disruption to the process.
v) Periodic status reports will be provided as agreed between the ABS Division Office and the
contracting party.

TABLE 1
Common Equipment and Components (Design Review/Survey)
Systems Components Design Survey FMEA Comments General API Approval Tier
(All Notes apply) Review (at vendor) Reference Level
(Informative) See Note 2
Pressure Vessels and X X Material testing 4/5

Heat exchangers etc. witness not
ID > 150 mm (6 in.) required by
Surveyor,
Compliance with
6-1-1/1 of the
ABS MOU Rules
required
Pressure Vessels and MAC 1

Heat exchangers etc.
ID ≤ 150 mm (6 in.)
Non-cylindrical X X Consult ABS 662 4/5

pressure vessels and Engineering on
heat exchangers actual design
requirements
Pressure Seamless X X Compliance with 4/5
Vessels accumulators 6-1-5/1.1 of the
ABS MOU Rules
required
Seamless MAC 1
accumulators ID ≤
150 mm (6 in.) or
design pressure < 6.9
bar
Weld fabricated X X Material testing 5

accumulators witness not
required by
Surveyor,
Compliance with
6-1-5/1.1 of the
ABS MOU Rules
required
Hydraulic Cylinders X X Example: Used in 4/5

(critical component in luffing, folding
the load path) and telescoping in
including piston rods load handling.
Hydraulic Refer to 2-6/25 of
Cylinders the Lifting
Appliance Guide
Hydraulic Cylinders MAC 1

(non-critical
component)

Skid Support X X If required by 5

Skid Structure and 2-7/11
Structures integrated lift
attachments
Lift Attachments per X X Safe Working 5

2-6/3.5i), ii), ii), and Load Proof Load
vi) < 20 tons 25% in
excess
Lifting 20-50 tons 5 tons
Attachment in excess
> 50 tons 10% in
excess
Lift Attachments per No requirements

2-6/3.5iv), v) for CDS
Control Defined separately in the table for each system/equipment

Systems
Hydraulic Hydraulic Power Unit X X 5

Power Unit (HPU)
(HPU) Pressure Relief Valve MAC 1
Loose Gear, Drilling Line MAC 9A, 9B 1

Sheaves,
Wire Rope MAC 9A, 9B 1
Hooks, Hook
Blocks, Wire Sand Line MAC 9A ,9B 1
Rope, and
Loose Gear, Hooks, Refer to Chapter
Pulleys
Hook Blocks, and 2, Section 5 of
Pulleys Lifting Appliance
Guide
Base Base Mounted X X Non-manriding 4/5

Mounted Winches
Winches
Electrical Electrical Systems See Chapter 2,

Systems and Components Section 7
Piping System MAC 1

Components See Chapter 4,
Piping and Section 1
Conduit
Expansion Joints X See Chapter 4, 2
(Rigid and
Section 1
Flexible)
Interconnecting Design review and testing to be in accordance with 6-1-6/Table 1 (except for “Material tests
Piping to be witness by Surveyor”) of the ABS MOU Rules
Internal Internal Combustion Refer to Part 6

Combustion Engines and Part 8 of the
Engines ABS MOU Rules
(Drilling Service)

Rated power ≥ 100 X X 4/5

kW and used in the
critical load path
Gears, Shafts Rated power < 100 X MAC 2

and kW and used in the
Couplings critical load path
Rated power < 100 MAC 1

kW and not used in
the critical load path
Rated power < 100 X MAC 2

kW and used in the
Rotating critical load path
Electric
Rated power < 100 MAC 1
Motors and
kW and not used in
Rotating
the critical load path
Electrical
Machines Rated power of ≥ 100 X X Refer to Part 6 of 4/5
kW (all applications the ABS MOU
Rules
Hydraulic Located in the critical X MAC 2

Motors load path
Located in a non- MAC 1

critical load path
Pumps Support systems for MAC 1

hydraulic pumps
Notes:
1 "Survey" requires the Surveyor attendance during fabrication, witness inspections and testing per rule requirements and
design codes/standards in accordance with the agreed Inspection/Test Plan (ITP), verification to approved plans and
issuance of a survey report. A COC is also required where indicated. Chapter 7 details surveys at vendor’s plant, during
installation and commissioning.
2 For optional ABS Type Approval Tiers see Appendices 1-1-A2 and 1-1-A3 of the ABS Rules for Conditions of
Classification – Offshore Units and Structures (Part 1). Refer to Chapter 8 of this Guide for quality system requirements.
3 Safety clamps capable of being used as hoisting equipment require proof testing for each production unit, reference API
8C.
4 MAC (Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance) is a document certified by a competent authority of the manufacturer that
the specified product meets the required specifications. An MAC is required for all equipment listed in these tables.
5 Tabular listing of API and Industry references are provided for general reference purposes only (informative). Other
industry standards may provide an equal or better basis for design.
6 Common equipment tables apply to all CDS equipment tables (WCS, DSD, DSC, and DSP systems).

TABLE 2
Common Equipment and Components (Testing)
System Components Factory On Board FMEA Testing Remarks General API

(All Notes apply) Testing Testing Testing Reference
(Informative)
Pressure Vessels and Heat HPT RWP/FT Function testing with

exchangers, etc. ID > 150 assembled systems. See
mm (6 in.) Section 6-1-5 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Pressure Vessels and Heat RWP/FT Function testing with

exchangers, etc. ID ≤ 150 assembled systems. See
mm (6 in.) Section 6-1-5 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Non-cylindrical pressure HPT RWP/FT Function testing with

vessels and heat assembled systems. See
exchangers Section 6-1-5 of the
Pressure ABS MOU Rules
Vessels Seamless Accumulators HPT RWP/FT Function testing with
assembled systems. See
Section 6-1-5 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Seamless Accumulators ID RWP/FT Function testing with

≤ 150 mm (6 in.) or design assembled systems. See
pressure < 6.9 bar Section 6-1-5 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Weld Fabricated HPT RWP/FT Function testing with

Accumulators assembled systems. See
Section 6-1-5 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Hydraulic Cylinders HPT RWP/FT

(critical component in the
Hydraulic load path)
Cylinders
Hydraulic Cylinders (non- FT
critical component)
Skid Structures Skid Support Structure and LT If required under

integrated lift attachments 2-7/11.3
LT LT LT at applicable
location. SWL to be
marked.Safe Working
Lift Attachments per
Load Proof Load< 20
Lifting 2-6/3.5i), ii), ii), and vi)
tons25% in excess20-50
Attachments tons5 tons in excess>50
tons10% in excess
Lift Attachments per No requirements for

2-6/3.5iv), v) CDS
Control
Defined separately in the table for each system/equipment
Systems


(Informative)
Hydraulic Hydraulic Power Unit HPT/FT RWP/FT

Power Unit Function testing with
(HPU) Pressure Relief Valve
assembled systems
FT FT with associated 9A, 9B

Drilling Line
system
Loose Gear,
Sheaves, FT FT with associated 9A, 9B
Wire Rope
Hooks, Hook system
Blocks, Wire FT FT with associated 9A, 9B
Rope, and Sand Line
system
Pulleys
Loose Gear, Hooks, Hook FT FT with associated
Blocks, and Pulleys system
LT/FT LT/FT Non-manriding; see

Base Mounted
Base Mounted Winches 7-3/3 for additional
Winches
testing requirements
Design review and

Electrical Electrical Systems and testing in accordance
Systems Components with 6-1-7/Table 1 of the
ABS MOU Rules
Piping and Piping System Components FT Per applicable standard

Conduit (Rigid
Expansion Joints FT Per applicable standard
and Flexible)
Interconnecting Piping Design review and testing to be in accordance with 6-1-6/Table 1 (except for
(welded) “Material tests to be witness by Surveyor”) of the ABS MOU Rules
Internal Internal Combustion Refer to Part 6 of the

Combustion Engines ABS MOU Rules
Engines
Rated power ≥ 100 kW and FT FT Function testing with

used in the critical load assembled systems
path
Rated power < 100 kW and FT Function testing with

Gears, Shafts
and Couplings
path
Regardless of rated power FT Function testing with

and not used in the critical assembled systems
load path

Rotating path
Electric Motors
and Rotating
not used in the critical load assembled systems
Electrical
path
Machines
Rated power of ≥ 100 kW FT FT Refer to Part 6 of the
(all applications) ABS MOU Rules


(Informative)
Hydraulic Located in the critical load FT

Motors path
Located in a non-critical FT Function testing with

load path assembled systems
Pumps Support systems for FT Function testing with

hydraulic pumps assembled systems
Notes:
1 Testing is required per the design specification and the applicable sections of this Guide and test plans are to be submitted to
the Surveyor for review. At the discretion of the attending Surveyor, test plans may be required to be submitted for technical
review. When specified, "Factory Acceptance Testing" can only be completed at installation due to the nature of the system,
same is to be noted in the test plans. Chapter 7 details surveys at vendor’s plant, during installation and commissioning.
2 For design validation, design validation testing may be required per the applicable design code. DVT on critical items per
API 16A require Surveyor witness.
Types of Test
HPT Hydrostatic Proof Test per design specification
RWP Design Rated Working Pressure
FT Function Test (operational tests without load/pressure applied)
HT Hydrostatic Test to over flow or vent height
LT Load Test as specified in the approved test plan.
MAC Manaufacturers Affidavit of Comliance
VT FMEA/FMECA Validation testing

TABLE 3
Well Control Systems (CDS-WCS notation) (Design Review /Survey)
(1 February 2021)
Systems Components Design Survey FMEA Comments General API Approval

(All Notes apply) Review (at vendor) Refernce Tier Level
BOP System (including

X X X
LMRP)
16A, 53 for
Blowout Preventer Stack X X 5
assembly
BOP Stack and LMRP See 2-3/3.1viii) for

X X 5
Structural Frame applicable standards
Ram BOP Assembly IRC COC 16A, S53 5
● Ram BOP Body IRC COC 16A, S53 5
● Bonnet/Door IRC COC 16A, S53 5

Assembly
● Ram Blocks X X 16A, S53 5

Blowout
Preventer Annular BOP IRC COC 16A, S53 5
Equipment
BOP Stack Mounted Including gas bleed,
IRC COC 6A, 16C, S53 5
Choke & Kill Valves test, outlet
Loose Flanges/ End

X X 6A/16A, S53 4/5
Fittings
16A, 6A,
Clamps IRC COC 5
16C, S53
Drilling and Adapter 16A, 6A,

IRC COC 5
Spools 16C, S53
Wellhead and 16A, 6AF2,

IRC COC 5
LMRP/BOP Connector S53
LMRP Mandrel 16A, S53,

IRC COC 5
(connector spool) 6AF2
Lower LMRP System X X X

Marine
Jumper Lines for Flex/ 16F, 16C,
Riser X X 4/5
Ball Joints 16D, 7K
Package –
LMRP
may
include
Annular
BOP and 16A, 16F,
Riser Adapter X X 5
Connector 16R, 6AF2
as
addressed
in BOP
Equipment


Diverter System X X X
Diverter Assembly
X X 16F, 64 5
(Housing + Insert)
Diverter
Overshot Mandrel,
System X X 16F, 64 4/5
Spool and Packers
Piping and Pipe Fittings X X 6A, 64 5
Valves X X 6D, 64 5
IBOP X X 7, 7G 4/5
Drill Pipe Safety Valves,

Drill String Float
Valves,Non-return (NR) X X 7, 7G 4/5
Auxiliary
Valve in drill String
Well
(IBO)
Control
Equipment Burner/Flare Boom X X 7, 7G 5
Burner/Flare Piping MAC 1
Burner/Flare Control
X X X 5
Panel
Riser System X X
Flex/Ball Joint X X 16F 4/5
Riser Joints X X 16F 4/5
● Couplings X X 16R 4/5
● Riser Components X X 16F, 16Q, 4/5

16R
Marine
Drilling Special Equipment/ X X 16F, 16Q, 4/5
Riser Components/ Joints as 16R
defined per API 16F
Buoyancy Equipment MAC 16F, 16Q 1
Riser Joint Lift X X 16F 4/5

Attachments
Telescopic Joint (Slip X X 16F 4/5

Joint)


Tensioning Systems X X
Pod Line & Guideline X X 16F, 16Q 5

Tensioners
Riser Recoil System X X 16F, 16Q 5
Tensioner Ring X X 16F 5
Riser and Riser Tensioning Unit X X 16F 5

Guideline
Telescopic Arms X X 5
Tensioning
Sheaves X X 8C 4/5
Nitrogen Generator X X 5
Compressor Skid X X 617 5
Dryer Skid X X 5
Control Systems X X X 16F, 16Q 5


Choke and Kill System X X X
Cement Pump (Power MAC: See 1

End: Prime Mover) 2-5/7.1viii) of this
Guide and 8-2-1/5.1
of the ABS MOU
Rules
Cement Pump (Power MAC: See 2-5/7.1ix) 7K 1

End: Gears/Couplings)
Cement Pump (Fluid X X 7K 5

End)
Cement Pump Relief X X 7K 5

Valve
Choke and Kill X X 16C 5

Connectors
Choke and Kill Flexible X X 16C 5

Choke and
Lines
Kill
System Choke and Kill X X 16C 5
including Articulated Lines
MGS
Union Connections and X X 16C 5
Swivel Connections
Choke and Kill Rigid X X 16C 5

Lines
Choke and Kill Drape X X 16C,16F,53 5

Hoses
Choke and Kill Manifold X X 16C 5
Spools, Crosses and Tees X X 16C 5
Buffer Chamber X X 16C 5
Drilling Choke and X X 16C 5

Operator
Choke and Kill Valves X X 6A 5
Mud-Gas Separator X X 16C,53 5

(Poor Boy)


BOP and Diverter

Control System
including Emergency X X X 16D, 53, 64 5
Disconnect for Subsea
Applications
Choke and Kill Control Refer to Part 4 of the

X X X 16C, 53 5
System ABS MOU Rules
Hoses: Surface MAC

16D, 53, 64 1
hydraulic/ pneumatic
Well Hoses: Subsea X X 16D, 53 4/5
Control
Systems Hoses: Moonpool
X X 16D, 53, 64 4/5
Controls Hotline Drape
Pressure Compensating
X X 16D 4/5
Accumulators
Mux Reel X X 16D, 53, 64 4/5
Hose Reels X X 16D, 53, 64 4/5
Umbilical Sheave X X 16D, 53, 64 4/5
BOP stack control System Integration

system equipment and X X Testing (SIT) 16D, 53, 64 5
system level testing
Acoustic Control System X X X 16D, 53 5
ROV Panel Full documentation

Secondary must be submitted
Controls with BOP/Diverter
X X X 16D, 17H, 53 5
control system review
even if separately
approved
Notes:
issuance of a survey report. A COC is also required where indicated. Chapter 7 details surveys at vendor’s plant, during
installation and commissioning.
3 IRCs and COCs are issued for the listed equipment only. IRCs are issued part number specific. COCs are issued part
number and serial number specific.
4 For equipment common to all systems, see 3-2/Table 1.
5 Tabular listing of API references are provided for general reference purposes only (informative). Other industry standards
may provide an equal or better basis for design.
7 For a description of CDS sub class notations see 1-2/3.

TABLE 4
Well Control System (CDS-WCS notation) (Testing)
General API
Components Factory On Board FMEA
System Testing Remarks Reference
(All Notes apply) Testing Testing Testing
(Informative)
BOP System (including LMRP) NA FT VT 16D and 53
Blow Out Preventer Stack RWP/FT RWP/FT 53 and 16A
Load Test padeyes to be

BOP Stack and LMRP used for routine lifting and
LT
Structural Frame handling at 1.25 times
padeye SWL
HPT/
Ram BOP Assembly RWP/FT 16A, 53
RWP/FT
● Ram BOP Body HPT RWP
● Door Assembly HPT RWP 16A, 53

Test with assembly per API
● Ram Blocks NA RWP/FT
16A
HPT/ HPT is shell test only

Blowout Annular BOP RWP/FT 6A, 53
RWP/FT without elastomers
Preventer
Equipment BOP Stack Mounted Choke &
HPT/FT RWP/FT 6A, 16C, 53
Kill Valves
Tested with the Equipment

Loose Flanges/End Fittings NA RWP installed upon in accordance 6A, 16A, 53
with appropriate standard
Clamps HPT RWP 6A, 16A
Load/Capacity to be
documented in accordance
Drilling and Adapter Spools HPT RWP with API 6AF. RWP 16A
performed with assembled
Stack
Wellhead and LMRP/BOP HPT/ HPT is shell test only

RWP/FT 16A
Connector RWP/FT without elastomers
LMRP Mandrel (connector

HPT RWP Testing per design standard 16A, 53
spool)

General API
(Informative)
Lower LMRP System FT FT VT

Marine
Jumper Lines for Flex/Ball
Riser HPT RWP 16F
Joints
PackageL
MRP may
include Kick outs tested separately.
Annular Testing to design standard or
BOP and approved procedure. On
16A, 16F,
Connector Riser Adapter HPT/ RWP RWP board testing is in
16Q
as conjunction with slip joint,
addressed drape hoses, on board rigid
in BOP choke lines and manifold.
Equipment
Diverter System FT FT VT
Diverter Assembly (Housing + HPT/ HPT is shell test only

RWP/FT 64
Insert) RWP/FT without elastomers
Test in Accordance with

Diverter
Overshot Mandrel, Spool, and approved procedures. HPT is
System HPT RWP
Packers shell test only without
elastomers
Piping and Pipe Fitting NA FT 64
Valves FT/HPT FT/RWP 64
IBOP HPT/ FT HPT is shell test only 7-1

RWP/FT without elastomers
Drill pipe safety valves, Drill HPT/ FT HPT is shell test only 7-1
Auxiliary string float valves, Non-return RWP/FT without elastomers
Well (NR) valve in drill strings
Control (IBO)
Equipment
Burner/Flare Boom RWP/FT FT
Burner/Flare Piping FT
Burner/Flare Control Panel FT FT VT

General API
(Informative)
Riser System NA FT
Flex/Ball Joint HPT FT 16F
Riser Joints HPT RWP “HPT” – Auxiliary, choke 16F, 16R,

and kill lines.C&K lines, 16Q
Mud Booster, Hydraulic
Lines – See applicable
sections.
● Couplings NA Design Testing 16R
● Riser Components HPT Auxiliary line only 16F, 16Q,

Marine
16R
Drilling
Riser Special Equipment/ Testing per design 16F, 16Q,
Components/ Joints as defined specification 16R
per API 16F
Buoyancy Equipment 16F, 16Q,
Riser Joint Lift Attachments LT 16F
Telescopic Joint (Slip Joint) HPT FT Prototype load test of 16F, 16Q
locking mechanism at 1.25 x
maximum design loads. HPT
is shell test only without
elastomers
Tensioning Systems NA FT
Pod Line & Guideline HPT/FT RWP/FT 16F, 16Q

Tensioners
Riser Recoil System FT FT
Tensioner Ring LT pad eyes at 1.25 x padeye

design SWLProduction load
Test as follows:
1) Each diametrically
opposed pair of
LT FT pad eyes and to 16F
Riser & include bearing
Guide Line shoulder
Tensioning
2) See “Lifting
Attachments” for
test loads
Riser Tensioning Unit HPT/FT RWP/FT 16F
Telescopic Arms HPT/FT RWP/FT
Sheaves FT FT Load Test and NDE 8C
Nitrogen Generator HPT/FT RWP/FT
Compressor Skid HPT/FT RWP/FT 617
Dryer Skid HPT/FT RWP/FT 16F, 16Q

General API
(Informative)
Choke and Kill System NA FT VT
Cement Pump (Power End: See 8-2-1/5.1 of the ABS

Prime Movers and Gears) MOU Rules
Cement Pump (Fluid End) HPT RWP/FT 7K
Cement Pump Relief Valve HPT/FT FT 7K
Choke and Kill – Connectors HPT RWP 16C, 53
Choke, Kill Flexible Lines HPT RWP 16F, 53
Choke & Kill Articulated Lines HPT RWP 16C, 53
Union Connections and Swivel

Choke and Connections HPT RWP 16C, 53
Kill
System Choke and Kill Rigid Lines HPT RWP 16C, 53
including Choke and Kill Drape Hoses HPT RWP 16C, 16F, 53
MGS
Choke and Kill – Manifolds HPT RWP 16C, 53
On Board Test with

Spools, Crosses, Tees HPT RWP Manifold (See Manifold 16C, 53
comment)
On Board Test with

Buffer Chamber HPT RWP Manifold (See Manifold 16C, 53
comment)
Drilling Choke and Operator HPT/FT RWP/FT 16C, 53
Choke and Kill Valves HPT/FT RWP/FT 6A, 53
Mud-Gas Separator (Poor Boy) HPT/FT FT 16C, 53

General API
(Informative)
BOP and Diverter Control Function

System including Emergency HPT/FT Test as VT 16D, 64
Disconnect for Subsea Assembly
Function
Choke and Kill Control System FT Test as VT 16C
Assembly
Function
Hoses: Surface hydraulic/
Test as 16D
pneumatic
Assembly
Function
Hoses: Subsea HPT Test as 16D
Assembly
Function
Hoses: Moonpool Hotline
Well HPT Test as 16D
Drape
Control Assembly
Systems Function
Controls Pressure Compensating
HPT Test as 16D
Accumulators
Assembly
Function
Mux Reel FT Test as 16D
Assembly
Function
Hose Reels HPT/FT Test as 16D
Assembly
Function
Umbilical Sheave FT Test as 16D
Assembly
BOP stack control system

16D, S53,
equipment and system level HPT/FT HPT/FT
S64
testing
Secondary Acoustic Control System FT FT VT 16D

Control
ROV Panel HPT RWP/FT VT 16D, 53, 17H
Systems

Notes:
2 Well Control Components are to be tested in accordance with tests specified by the Manufacturer and this Guide. Low
pressure and rated working pressure tests are required at Installation/Commissioning testing on board. Refer to API 53 for
low pressure testing criteria.
4 For equipment common to all systems, see the 3-2/Table 2.
5 Tabular listing of API references are provided for general reference purposes only (informative). Other industry standards
may provide an equal or better basis for design.
6 Where multiple tests are indicated (e.g., HPT/RWP/FT), all tests are required
Types of Tests
FT Function Test (Operational Tests without load/pressure applied)
VT FMEA/FMECA Validation Testing
7 For a description of CDS sub class notations, see 1-2/3.
TABLE 5
Derrick Systems (CDS-DSD notation) (Design Review/Survey)
General API Approval

Components Design Survey
Systems FMEA Comments Reference Tier Level
(All Notes apply) Review (at vendor)
Riser Handling
X X
System
Gimbal (or Shock

X X 16F 5
Absorber) assembly
Gimbal (fixed)
X X 16F 5
assembly
Riser Spider (For use

X X 8C 4/5
as elevators/lifting)
Riser Running
Riser Spider (fixed) X X 16F 5
Equipment
Riser Hang Off unit
(Not capable of X X 16F 5
lifting)
Riser Test/Running (If used to handle or

X X 16F 5
Tool land BOP)
Diverter Test/Running (If used to land

X X 16F 5
Tool BOP)
Control Systems X X X 5

Compensation
X X
Systems
Compensation Nitrogen Generator X X 5

Support
Compressor Skid X X 5
Equipment
Dryer Skid X X 5
Sheaves X X 8C 4/5
Heave Compensation
X X
Systems
In-Line Heave Compensator

X X 8C 5
Compensator Assembly
Hose Bundle MAC 1
Traveling Frame and

X X 4F,8C 5
Guides
Crown
Mounted Drill Line
X X 8C, 9B 5
Compensator Compensation
Structure with Guide

Derrick and X X 4F 5
Tracks
Masts
Support Beams X X 4F 5

Hoisting Systems X X
Crown Block X X 4F 5
Crown Block Sheaves X X 4F 5
Deadline Anchors X X 8C 5
Dolly for Traveling

X X 8C 5
Assembly
Drawworks X X 7K 5
Drawworks Control
X X X 5
Systems
Drill and Wire Line

MAC 1
Spoolers
Elevators X X 8C 4/5
Hoisting
Kelly Spinner (If used
as lifting or hoisting X X 8C 4/5
equipment)
Links X X 8C 5
Power Swivel/Top MAC on Gears and

X X 8C 5
Drive Couplings
Top Drive Control

X X X 5
System
MAC on Gears and

Rotary Swivel X X 8C 5
Couplings
Sheaves X X 8C,7K, 9B 4/5
Traveling Block X X 8C 5
Hook Block X X 8C 5
Notes:
issuance of a survey report. Chapter 7 details surveys at vendor’s plant, during installation and commissioning.
3 Safety clamps capable of being used as hoisting equipment require proof testing for each production unit, Reference API
8C.
7 For shafts gears and couplings associated with hoisting equipment subject to design review, refer to 2-9/9.7.

TABLE 6
Derrick Systems (CDS-DSD notation) (Testing)
General API
(Informative)
Riser Handling System NA FT
Gimbal (or Shock 1.5x rated load in axial

FT/LT FT 16F
Absorber) assembly direction
1.5x rated load in axial

Gimbal (fixed) assembly FT/LT FT 16F
direction
Riser Spider (For use as 1.5x rated load in axial

FT/LT FT 16F
elevators/lifting) direction
1.5x rated load in axial
Riser Spider (fixed) FT/LT FT 16F
direction
Riser Running
Equipment 1.5x rated load in axial
Riser Hang Off unit (Not
FT/LT FT direction unless waived by 16F
capable of lifting)
technical qualification
HPT/FT/L As per design approval and

Riser Test/Running Tool FT 16F
T standards
HPT/FT/L As per design approval and

Diverter Test/Running Tool FT 16F
T standards
A function test at the

Control Systems FT FT VT manufacturer plant to the
extent possible
Compensation Systems NA FT
Nitrogen Generator HPT/FT RWP/FT

Compensation
Support Compressor Skid HPT/FT RWP/FT 617
Equipment
Dryer Skid HPT/FT RWP/FT
Sheaves LT FT 8C
Conductor Tensioning
NA FT
Conductor System
Tensioning
Conductor Tensioning Unit HPT/FT RWP/FT 16F
Unit
Control System FT FT VT 16F
Heave Compensation
NA FT
Systems
In-Line Heave Compensator Assembly HPT/FT RWP/FT 8C
Compensator
Hose Bundle

General API
(Informative)
Traveling Frame and

FT FT 4F, 8C
Crown Guides
Mounted
Drill Line Compensation FT FT 8C, 9B
Compensator
Structure with Guide FT per vendor facility

FT FT 4F
Derrick and Tracks capability
Masts Design verification testing
Support Beams FT FT 4F
per design standard
Hoisting Systems NA FT
Design verification testing

Crown Block FT FT 8C
per design standard
Hoisting Crown Block Sheaves NA FT 8C
Deadline Anchors FT FT 8C
Dolly for Traveling

FT FT 4F, 8C
Assembly

General API
(Informative)
1) Caliper brake
(Mechanical) tests
at 100% of rated
motor torque or
static single line
load test – 1.25 x
rated load of the
fast line pull
Drawworks FT/LT FT/LT 7K
rating, one time.
2) Other testing per

Chapter 7
3) On board testing to
approved
commissioning
procedures.
Drawworks Control
FT FT VT
Systems
Drill and Wire Line

FT
Spoolers
Elevators LT FT 8C
Hoisting Kelly Spinner (if used as
(continued) lifting or hoisting FT/LT FT 8C
equipment)
Links LT 8C
HPT 2X RWP where RWP is

Power Swivel/Top Drive HPT/FT RWP/FT 5000 psi or less. Otherwise 8C
1.5
FMEA validation tests

Top Drive Control Systems FT FT VT
required
HPT 2X RWP where RWP is

Rotary Swivel HPT/FT RWP/FT 5000 psi or less. Otherwise 8C
1.5
Sheaves NA FT As part of system 8C, 9B

per design specification.
Traveling Block FT 8C
Unit LT when specified in
approved procedures

per design specification.
Hook Block FT FT 8C
Unit LT when specified in
approved procedures

Notes:
2 2 For design validation, design validation testing may be required per the applicable design code. DVT on critical items per
3 3 For equipment common to all systems, see 3-2/Table 2.
4 4 Where multiple tests are indicated (e.g., FT/HPT/RWP), all tests are required.
5 5 Tabular listing of API and Industry references are provided for general reference purposes only (informative). Other
Types of Test
FT Function Test (Operational tests without load/pressure applied)
VT Verification Testing

Table 7
Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (CDS-DSC notation) (Design Review/
Survey)

Components Design Survey
LP Mud System Refer to Part 6 of the

X X
ABS MOU Rules
Bulk Tanks X X 13C 5
Independent Mud
X X 13C 5
Tanks
Agitators for Drilling

MAC 682, 13C 1
Fluid
Mixing Hopper MAC 682, 13C 1
LP piping X On board assembly 5

Mud
Circulation Mixing/transfer/
MAC 1
(LP) charging pumps
Degasser X X 13C 5
Desander/Desilter MAC 13C 1
Gumbo Box MAC 1
Mud Cleaner MAC 13C 1
Shale Shakers MAC 13C 1
Trip Tank X X 13C 5
Control Systems Refer to Part 4 of the

X X X 5
ABS MOU Rules

HP Mud System X X
Circulation Head X X 7K 5
Gooseneck, Swivel X X 8C 5
Mud Pumps – Power See 3-2/Table 1 and

End X X Part 6 of the ABS 7K 5
MOU Rules
Fluid Ends – High

X X 7K 5
Pressure
Mud
Circulation Pulsation Dampeners X X See ASME Code 5
(HP)
HP Piping ASME B31.3 or
X X
equivalent standard
Standpipe Manifold X X 6A 5
Mud/Cement Hoses X X 6A 5
Mud Pump Relief

X X 7K 5
Valve
Control Systems Refer to Part 4 of the

X X X 5
ABS MOU Rules
Notes:

TABLE 8
Drilling Fluid Conditioning Systems (CDS-DSC notation) (Testing)
General API
(Informative)
LP Mud System NA FT
Refer to Part 6 of the

Bulk Tanks HPT FT
ABS MOU Rules
Independent Mud Tanks HT FT 13C
Agitators for Drilling Fluid FT 13C
Mixing Hopper FT
Mud Degasser HPT/FT RWP/FT 13C
Circulation
(LP) Desander/Desilter FT 13C
Gumbo Box FT
Mud Cleaner FT
Shale Shakers FT 13C
Trip Tank HT FT 13C

Control Systems FT FT VT
ABS MOU Rules
HP Mud System NA FT
Circulation Head HPT RWP 7K
Gooseneck, Swivel HPT/FT RWP 8C
Mud Pumps – Power End RWP/ FT RWP/ FT 7K
Mud Pump Fluid Ends HPT RWP/ FT 7K
Pre-charge
Mud Pulsation Dampeners HPT RWP/ FT verification/FT in
Circulation system
(HP)
ASME B31.3 or
HP piping system HPT HPT/FT
equivalent standard
Standpipe Manifold HPT RWP/ FT 6A
Mud/Cement Hoses HPT RWP 6A
Mud Pump Relief Valve HPT/FT FT

ABS MOU Rules

Notes:
4 Where multiple tests are indicated (e.g., FT/HPT/RWP), all tests are required.
Types of Test
HPT Hydrostatic Proof Test per design

specification
FT Function Test (Operational tests

without load/pressure applied)
HT Hydrostatic Test to over flow or vent

height
LT Load Test as specified in the approved

test plan

TABLE 9
Handling Systems (CDS-DSP notation) (Desgn Review/Survey)

Components Design Survery
Tubular Handing
X X
Systems
Bridge Crane X X 5
Casing Stabbing Board X X 5
Crane Type Lifting

X X 2C 5
Equipment
Finger Board X X 5
Horizontal to Vertical
X X 5
Lifting Eqipment
Hydraulic Cathead MAC 1
Iron Roughneck/Power
MAC 7K 1
Tongs
Pipe Racking Equipment X X 4/5
Manipulator Arms X X 4/5
Tubular Monkey Board X X 4/5

Handling
Mousehole- Powered X X 5
Mousehole - Fixed MAC 1
Tubular Chute X X 5
Tubular Horizontal
MAC 1
Transporter
Tubular Horizontal
Transporter Support X X 5
Structure
Power Slips (Hydraulic

MAC 1
or Pneumatic)
Tail-In Arm MAC 1
Tong Suspension MAC 1
Tong-Manual, for
MAC 1
Tubular Handling
Rotary Table X X 7K 5
Rotary


Components Design Survery
BOP Handing System X X
Vertical Transporter X X 5
Horizontal Transporter/
X X 5
Skidder
BOP
Handling BOP Handling Crane X X 5
Lifting attachments/
Padeyes serving as X X 2A WSD 5
equipment foundations
Notes:
3 Safety clamps capable of being used as hoisting equipment require proof testing for each production unit, reference API 8C.

TABLE 10
Tubular Handling Systems (CDS-DSP notation) (Testing)
General API
Systems Testing Remarks Reference
(Informative)
Tubular Handling Systems NA FT
Bridge Crane FT/LT FT/LT
Casing Stabbing Board FT FT/LT
Crane Type Lifting Equipment FT/LT FT/LT 2C
Finger Board FT FT
Horizontal to Vertical Lifting

FT/LT FT/LT
Equipment
Hydraulic Cathead FT
Iron Roughneck/Power Tongs FT
Pipe Racking Equipment FT/LT FT/LT
Manipulator Arms FT FT
Monkey Board FT FT
Tubular
Handling Mousehole - Powered FT/LT FT/LT RWP of hydraulic Systems
Mousehole - Fixed FT
Tubular Chute FT FT
Tubular Horizontal Transporter FT RWP of hydraulic Systems
Tubular Horizontal Transporter

FT FT FT with transporter as unit
Support Structure
Power Slips (Hydraulic or

FT
Pneumatic)
Tail-In Arm FT
Tong Suspension FT
Tong- Manual, for Tubular

FT
Handling
Rotary Table FT FT 7K
Rotary

General API
Systems Testing Remarks Reference
(Informative)
BOP Handing System NA FT
Functional LT with SWL or
Vertical Transporter FT/LT FT according to approved
procedure
Functional LT with SWL or

Horizontal Transporter/Skidder FT/LT FT according to approved
procedure
BOP For LT see 2-7/5 of Lifting
Handling BOP Handling Crane FT/LT FT/LT
Appliance Guide or API 2C
LT at applicable location.
SWL to be marked.Safe
Lifting Attachments/Padeyes
Working Load Proof Load<
serving as equipment LT LT 2A WSD
20 tons25% in excess20-50
foundations
tons5 tons in excess>50
tons10% in excess
Notes:
4 Where multiple tests are indicated (e.g., FT/HPT/RWP), all tests are required.
Types of Test
FT Function Test (Operational tests without load/pressure applied)

CHAPTER 4
Drilling System Piping
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General..............................................................................................129
1 General....................................................................................... 129
SECTION 2 Design Criteria................................................................................. 130

1 Piping Systems and Components...............................................130
1.1 Design............................................................................130
1.3 Service Considitons....................................................... 130
1.5 Allowances.....................................................................131
1.7 Alternative Criteria......................................................... 131
3 Fitting and Valves....................................................................... 131
5 Piping Joints and Connections................................................... 131
5.1 General.......................................................................... 131
5.3 Threaded Joints and Connections................................. 132
5.5 Socket Welds.................................................................132
5.7 Quick Connect Fittings...................................................132
7 Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses ..................................................132
7.1 Design............................................................................133
7.3 Fire Resistance..............................................................134
7.5 End Connections........................................................... 134
7.7 Isolation Valves..............................................................134
7.9 Materials........................................................................ 135
9 Materials..................................................................................... 135
9.1 General.......................................................................... 135
9.3 Toughness..................................................................... 135
9.5 Composite Materials...................................................... 135
11 Welding and NDE....................................................................... 135
11.1 General.......................................................................... 135

CHAPTER 4
SECTION 1
General
1 General
This Section contains general requirements for piping systems and/or associated components that form part
of the drilling systems.
i) Piping systems that are used for both marine and drilling services such as hydraulic piping, air
piping, seawater service, potable water, power generation, etc., are to be in accordance with Part 4,
Chapter 2 of the ABS MOU Rules.
ii) The manufacturer is to submit to ABS for approval P&IDs, piping specifications and material
data, design plans and calculations for each piping system associated with the drilling systems and
equipment listed in 3-2/Tables 1 through 10.
iii) Piping systems and components are to be designed and tested in compliance with ASME B31.3
and the applicable recognized codes and standards as specified in Chapter 2, Section 2.
iv) The above requirements are to be used for all drilling system piping and in conjunction with the
specific requirements contained in Chapter 2 for individual subsystems used for drilling systems.
v) For requirements for over pressurization protection refer to 2-1/5

CHAPTER 4
SECTION 2
Design Criteria
1 Piping Systems and Components
1.1 Design
i) Piping and piping components are to be designed to withstand the maximum stress that could arise
from the most severe combination of pressure, temperature, and other loads or service conditions
as referenced in 4-2/1.3 below, and to be in accordance with codes and standards referenced in
Chapter 4, Section 1.
ii) For high-pressure ratings that are not within the scope of the referenced codes in Chapter 4,
Section 1 above, pipe wall thickness calculations demonstrating suitability for the intended service
are to be submitted for ABS review.
iii) Pipe stress and flexibility analysis are to be performed in accordance with ASME B31.3 or other
recognized design code for all applicable service and loading conditions for the following systems
(including all associated piping, connection, manifolds, etc.):
a) Choke and kill systems
b) High-pressure mud and cement systems
c) Main Hoisting System (Hydraulic)
d) Burner/Flare piping system (permanent)
iv) Expansion joints are to be in accordance with ASME B31.3 and the applicable recognized codes
and standards as required by this Guide for the specific application. When used, non-metallic
expansion joints or bellows in piping systems are to be provided with shields to prevent
mechanical damage; are to be properly aligned and secured and are to comply with the
requirements of 4-6-2/5.8 of the ABS Marine Vessel Rules.
v) Piping Systems that may have the potential of exposure to pressure greater than for which they are
designed are to be protected by suitable pressure protection devices. Pressure regulators are not to
be used as a substitute for pressure relief devices.
1.3 Service Considitons

i) The piping design is to account for, relative to the fluid being transported, internal and external
pressures, transient vibrational stresses, fluid velocity and associated erosional effects, hydraulic
hammer, transient temperature excursions, outside imposed impact forces and pressure pulsations,
and low temperature service considerations, as applicable.

Chapter 4 Drilling System Piping
Section 2 Design Criteria 4-2
ii) For surface BOP stack, all rigid lines between the control system and BOP stack are to comply
with the following:
a) Fire test requirements of API 16D, including end connections
b) b) To have RWP equal to the RWP of the BOP control system, as applicable
iii) For subsea BOP stack:
a) For fire resistance requirements refer to 4-2/7.3iii).
b) All rigid lines between the control system and BOP are to have RWP equal to the RWP of
the BOP control system, as applicable.
1.5 Allowances
The design wall thickness of all piping is to account for, as applicable:
i) Mill under-tolerances (12.5% of nominal piping thickness, unless otherwise stated in the material
specification)
ii) Allowances for threads
iii) Corrosion/erosion allowance (unless an effective coating system is applied) is to be in accordance
with specified design code/standard and 2-3/3.1, as applicable.
iv) Fabrication tolerances
1.7 Alternative Criteria

i) ABS is prepared to consider other applicable design references, alternative design methodology
and industry practice for piping system and piping component designs, on a case-by-case basis,
with justifications through novel features as indicated in Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide.
ii) Piping components whose dimensions are not specified by recognized codes/standards, design
details including dimensional drawings, stress calculations and material data are to be submitted
for ABS review and approval.
iii) The extent of NDE, service temperatures, material ductility and special fabrication methods are
also to be considered for alternative design criteria.
3 Fitting and Valves

All piping components are to meet the applicable piping code and the additional requirements in this
Section.
5 Piping Joints and Connections
5.1 General
i) Piping joints and connections greater than 50 DN (2 in. NPS) are to be made by butt-weld, flanged
or screwed union where the threads are not part of the sealing.
ii) Box and pin joints for the choke and kill lines on drilling risers are acceptable.
iii) SAE Code 61 and 62 (ISO 6162-1/ISO 6162-2) split flanges may be used, subject to the following
minimum criteria:
a) The location of each split flange is to be identified, and catalogue cut sheets/
manufacturers’ specifications for each split flange shall be provided.
b) Split-flanges shall be installed internally only, shall not be subjected to external
mechanical loading, and shall be an integral part of the system design (i.e., they shall be
used only within skids/piping systems, in properly supported locations, and shall be
protected from damage during drilling operations and day-to-day equipment movement).

They shall not be used in interconnection piping between skids and/or independent units
subject to vibration or relative movement, or in any other unprotected or unsupported
location in which external mechanical loads may be encountered.
c) Split flanges, associated O-ring seals and connecting bolts shall be in accordance with
standard SAE J518.
d) The burst pressure of the split flanges shall be at least four times the rated working
pressure (RWP) or Maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of the system. The
test report shall be submitted for review for each type.
e) A reliability study/service experience record shall be submitted for each split flange type
for ABS review and approval. The reliability study shall make mention of the failure rate
of split flanges when used in the critical locations based on service experience of X
number of years and any related failures observed.
iv) Piping joints and connections not in accordance with design codes and standards will be specially
considered by ABS on a case-by-case basis.
5.3 Threaded Joints and Connections

i) Threaded joints and connections are not to be used in systems subjected to bending or vibrational
loads.
ii) All screwed joints or connections are to be evaluated, considering the following:
a) Pipe outer diameter and thread allowance
b) Fluid type, corrosion and fluid leakage risk
c) Transient excursions of vibration, pulsation and pressure
iii) Threaded joints and connections can be utilized on BOP and Diverter Control Systems provided
they are demonstrated to meet the requirements of the applicable API Specifications per Chapter 2
of this Guide and ASME B31.3.
5.5 Socket Welds

i) All socket-welding connections are to be identified and specially approved by ABS.
ii) Socket-welding of piping connections intended for corrosive, particularly sour services is not to be
used.
Type Size Pressure
Socket welds As permitted by, and to be in
≤ 50 DN (2 in. NPS) ≤ 34.47 MPa (5000psi) compliance with, design
code
> 50 DN (2 in. NPS) All Not permitted
5.7 Quick Connect Fittings

Hammer lock, hammer union or other quick connect type specialty fittings are to have a rated pressure not
less than the pipe system design pressure and are to conform to applicable piping codes or meet the
alternative standards requirements of this Guide.
7 Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses

Typical uses for flexible lines and hydraulic hoses and their applicable design codes and standards are as
follows:

Typical Use Applicable Cose/Standard

Choke and kill system flexible lines (surface/subsea) API 16C
● Jumper lines (at subsea BOP stack)
● Choke and kill in moon pool for subsea
● Choke and kill for surface BOP stack.
Auxiliary lines and drape hoses API 16D, 16F
● Mud boost lines
● Hydraulic conduits/“Hot-line” hoses (to BOP)
● Buoyancy control line
● Jumper lines (at subsea BOP stack)
Hydraulic hoses for control functions, fluid power and hydraulic fluid transfers API 16D
associated with well control
Hydraulic hoses for control functions, fluid power and hydraulic fluid transfers API 16C
associated with choke control
Rotary and vibratory hoses API 7K
Cementing hoses API 7K
Hydraulic hoses for control functions, fluid power and hydraulic fluid transfers for the ABS MOU Rules
drilling systems such as topdrive, drawworks, riser tensioning, tubular handling, etc.
Flexible lines and hydraulic hoses are to comply with the following general requirements:
i) The hose body is to be secured to prevent falling or whipping in the event of a rupture or failure.
ii) Hose assemblies which can pose risk to personnel upon end failure are to be properly restrained.
High pressure hoses are to be secured and fastened per AP 54 requirements 9.7.7, 9.13.3.
7.1 Design
i) Choke and Kill flexible lines and auxiliary lines are to comply with the design, material, quality
control, and prototype testing, including burst testing requirements specified in API 16C, API 16F,
and the additional requirements specified in this Guide.
ii) Drape hoses (moonpool lines) at the telescopic joint are to be able to accommodate the relative
movement between the riser and the drilling unit.
iii) For subsea BOP stack, jumper lines at the flex/ball joints are be able to accommodate the relative
movement between the riser and the BOP stack.
iv) Flexible lines for subsea services are to be designed to withstand the external pressure for the
operational depth without deforming.
v) Hydraulic hoses/assembly utilized for well control functions are to comply with the requirements
of applicable sections of the ABS MOU Rules (for surface hydraulic control hoses only), API 16D
and recognized industry standards, such as SAE, National Fluid Power Association, as applicable.
vi) Flexible lines that are exposed to wellbore fluids are to consider gas permeation and
decompression in their designs.
vii) For end connections using split flanges refer to 4-2/5
viii) Hydraulic hoses/assembly utilized for drilling system control and hydraulic fluid transfer are to
comply with the requirements of applicable sections of the ABS MOU Rules, recognized industry
standards, such as SAE, National Fluid Power Association, as applicable.

ix) Flexible lines or hydraulic hoses that are to be used in pneumatic service are to be designed with
consideration to decompression and permeation.
x) Rotary and vibratory hoses/assembly for drilling services are to comply with the design, and be
manufactured to API 7K, and the additional requirements specified in this Guide, and be suitable
for their intended service (temperature, fluid compatibility, etc.).
7.3 Fire Resistance

i) General:
a) Flexible lines/hydraulic hoses carrying flammable fluids, as defined in Chapter 1, Section
7, are to be fire-resistant for well control operations in accordance with API 16C, unless
4-2/7.3i)e) and/or 4-2/7.3iii)a) are applicable.
b) Riser choke, kill and auxiliary lines used for well control applications within Zone 0 or
Zone 1 hazardous areas, irrespective of fluid category, are to be fire-resistant except as
indicated in 4-2/7.3iii)a) as applicable. The fire resistance test is to be in accordance with
API 16C and API 16D and ISO 15540/15541, as applicable.
c) Hydraulic hoses carrying flammable oil for applications other than well control are to be
in compliance with the applicable requirements of 4-2-1/11.29 of the ABS MOU Rules
and Appendix 2 of the Facilities Rules, except for hydraulic hoses in 4-2/7.3 of this
Guide.
d) Hydraulic hoses and flexible lines carrying non-flammable fluids [other than those under
4-2/7.3i)b)] are not required to be fire-resistant.
e) Hydraulic hoses and flexible lines located subsea are not required to be fire-resistant.
ii) For surface BOP stack, all flexible lines hydraulic hoses between the control system and BOP
stack are to comply with the following:
a) Fire test requirements of API 16D, including end connections.
b) To have RWP equal to the RWP of the BOP control system, as applicable.
iii) For a subsea BOP stack, all flexible lines hydraulic hoses connected to the BOP stack are to
comply with the following:
a) All discrete and multiplex lines between the BOP and control system on units with
autoshear and deadman systems (except for the choke and kill lines) shall not meet the
fire resistance requirement of API 16D, as the use of fire retardant hoses can delay or
prevent activation of the autoshear and deadman systems.
b) All flexible lines/hydraulic hoses between the control system and BOP are to have RWP
greater than or equal to the RWP of the BOP control system, as applicable.
c) Moonpool choke and kill hoses or flexible lines and their end connections installed that
permit entry of gas or hydrocarbons, are to meet the design requirements, performance
verification and fire-resistance requirements in accordance with API 16C.
7.5 End Connections

i) End connections for flexible lines/hydraulic hoses are to be designed and fabricated to the
requirements of this Guide and applicable recognized codes and standards.
ii) End connections are to be considered as an integral part of the flexible line/hydraulic hose
assembly.
7.7 Isolation Valves

Isolation valves are to be provided to prevent potential uncontrolled release of flowing medium from
flexible lines to minimize the hazard.

7.9 Materials
i) Material requirements for flexible lines and hydraulic hoses, including end fittings when exposed
to wellbore fluids or a corrosive/erosive environment, are to be in accordance with Chapter 4 and
Chapter 5 of this Guide and applicable design codes and standards.
ii) Nonmetallic materials used in the manufacturing of flexible line and/or hydraulic hose assemblies
are to be suitable for the intended service conditions such as temperature and fluid compatibility.
9 Materials
9.1 General
Materials are to be in accordance with the applicable design codes and standards referenced in this section,
and the requirements of Chapter 5 of this Guide.
9.3 Toughness
Piping component toughness requirements are to be in accordance with Chapter 5 of this Guide.
9.5 Composite Materials

Composite materials where used in drilling piping system applications are to be of fire-resistant
construction and are to be designed and tested to ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section X, and
Appendix 1 of the ABS Facilities Rules.
11 Welding and NDE
11.1 General
Welding and NDE are to be in accordance with the applicable design codes and standards referenced in
this Section, and the requirements of Chapter 6 of this Guide.

CHAPTER 5
Materials for Drilling Systems and Equipment
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General..............................................................................................138
1 General....................................................................................... 138
3 Material Specifications................................................................138
5 Manufacturing Specifications......................................................138
7 Material Selection....................................................................... 139
9 Corrosion.................................................................................... 139
9.1 General.......................................................................... 139
9.3 Sour Service.................................................................. 139
11 Threaded Fasteners- Well-bore Fluid Service............................ 140
13 Additional Requirements for Critical Well Control Equipment.....140
SECTION 2 Materials for Structural and Mechanical Load-Bearing

Components..................................................................................... 141
1 General....................................................................................... 141
3 Toughness.................................................................................. 141
Table 1 Toughness (Structural Materials)....................................... 142
SECTION 3 Materials for Pressure-Retaining/Containing/ Controlling

Equipment and Piping Components.............................................. 144
1 General....................................................................................... 144
3 Toughness.................................................................................. 144
SECTION 4 Material Manufacturing Considerations........................................ 146

1 General....................................................................................... 146
3 Rolled Products.......................................................................... 146
5 Forging........................................................................................146
7 Castings......................................................................................147
SECTION 5 Material Fabrication Considerations..............................................148

1 Welding.......................................................................................148

3 Forming.......................................................................................148
5 Galvanizing................................................................................. 148
SECTION 6 Sealing (Metallic and Non-metallic) Materials............................... 150

1 General....................................................................................... 150
3 Elastomeric Sealants.................................................................. 150
5 Ring Joint Gaskets......................................................................150
SECTION 7 Documentation and Traceability.....................................................151

1 Material Documentation..............................................................151
SECTION 8 Nondestructive Testing (NDE)........................................................ 152

1 General....................................................................................... 152
3 Specifications, Procedures and Material Documentation........... 152
5 Qualification of NDE Technicians:...............................................152
7 Extent of Examination of Cast and Wrought Materials and
Repair Welds.............................................................................. 152
9 Methods and Acceptance Criteria...............................................153

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 1
General
1 General
This Section specifies requirements for selection of materials intended for drilling system equipment
and/or components, including production testing and documentation.
All materials are to be suitable for their intended service conditions and as defined by a recognized
standard and/or manufacturer’s material specifications.
3 Material Specifications
Material specifications for primary structural load bearing components in the critical load path and
pressure retaining, containing and controlling components are to be submitted to ABS for review by ABS
Materials Engineering Department. Specifications that fully comply with recognized industry standards
such as EN, API and ASTM need not be submitted. Submitted specifications shall include the applicable
information from the below list, as a minimum:
● Material – Grade, including chemical composition (limits and tolerance), any limitation on grain size,
and identification of secondary phases.
● Allowable porosity, segregation level and steel cleanliness controls of inclusions, porosity, etc., as
applicable to the process.
For the Material Test Reports (MTR) refer to 5-7/1. Materials indicated in drawings compliant with
recognized customary standards need not be incorporated in the materials specification.
5 Manufacturing Specifications
Manufacturing Specifications for raw materials for critical well control equipment and ram blocks,
including threaded fasteners per 5-1/11 are to be submitted to ABS Materials Engineering Department for
review. It is the responsibility of the critical equipment designer to identify the critical components, and
this is to be agreed upon by ABS.
The manufacturing specification shall include but is not limited to:

i) Materials identification traceable to materials test reports (MTR) from manufacturer’s mill
ii) Processing – Melting, refining, casting, ingot/billet cropping, hot working, forming (reduction
ratio), hydrogen controls etc.

Chapter 5 Materials for Drilling Systems and Equipment
iii) Heat Treatment Procedure – Furnace loading diagram and spacing of components, temperature,
time, heating and cooling rate, quenching medium and type of agitation, monitoring of quench
medium start and finish temperature, transfer times to quench and furnace, re-heat treatment etc.
Heat treatment procedures per the design specification is to include provisions for loading
diagrams and any required photographic records of the heat treat process.
Note: Unless required by the design specification, photographic evidence of furnace loading is not mandatory,
however it is the preferred method of furnace loading verification.
iv) Surface Treatment – Surface hardening
v) Mechanical Testing – Requirements, test coupon locations, testing frequency
vi) NDE Inspection – Personnel qualification, requirements, acceptance criteria
vii) Non-conformance handling procedure, acceptable repairs methods including weld repair
viii) Marking and traceability
ix) Metal Surfacing Specifications – Reference ASME IX for essential variables
Manufacturing process changes are to be documented and submitted.

i) Refer to 5-4/1 for requirements of material manufacturers
ii) Refer to Chapter 5, Section 6 for requirements of non-metallic materials
If the manufacturing facility has an existing ABS approval for the above listed products, the above
documentation requirement may be waived upon discretion of the technical review office.
7 Material Selection
The material is to be suitable for the design criteria.
Applicable CVN testing is based on the following drilling system equipment/component category,
i) Structural and mechanical load-bearing members and components are:
a) Members supporting loads or components transmitting, resisting and converting loads,
due to hoisting, lifting, handling, drilling or self/assembled weight, etc.
b) And are to comply with the requirements of Chapter 5, Section 2.
ii) Pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment and piping components are:
a) Equipment/component subjected to pressure
b) And are to comply with the requirements of Chapter 5, Section 3.
9 Corrosion
9.1 General
Consideration is to be given to the breakdown of materials by corrosion in the design environment. Refer
to 2-2/3.5 for details on corrosion/erosion design allowances.
9.3 Sour Service

Materials used in drilling system equipment/components designed for sour service are to comply with the
applicable part of NACE MR0175/ISO 15156: Materials for use in H2S containing environment in oil and
gas production.

11 Threaded Fasteners- Well-bore Fluid Service

When selecting materials for the fabrication of threaded fasteners for closure, pressure controlling and
pressure retaining equipment, consideration is to be given to minimizing galvanic effects (corrosion and
cracking) between components being joined in the anticipated environment. Threaded fasteners, including
all fasteners potentially exposed to hydrogen rich environments, such as ram blade to block attachment
bolts, are to be manufactured and tested in accordance with applicable recognized material standards such
as NACE MR0175, API 20E, API 20F, API 16A, API 6A, API 16C, ASTM, and any other applicable
standard. Threaded fasteners manufactured from alloy steel or carbon steel shall be limited to 34 HRC
maximum due to concerns with hydrogen embrittlement and environmentally assisted cracking.
In case of plated/coated threaded fasteners used for closure, pressure controlling and pressure retaining
equipment including all fasteners potentially exposed to hydrogen rich environments such as the ram blade
to block attachment bolts, the application of API 20E is to be followed. In addition to API 20E, ASTM
B849 is applicable for pre-heat treatment depending upon the coating process being applied, and ASTM
B850 is applicable as a post coating heat treatment for further reducing the risk of hydrogen embrittlement.
Zinc electroplating is not permitted for splash zone or subsea service.
Hydrogen embrittlement and cracking can be introduced during the acid cleaning process. Measures such
as baking before and after surface coating are to be required to prevent Hydrogen induced failure. Some
surface treatments are more susceptible to hydrogen problems than others and careful consideration is to be
made of the anticipated environment, (for example levels of cathodic protection in seawater, or interaction
between dissimilar materials) when selecting the surface treatment process.
13 Additional Requirements for Critical Well Control Equipment

Equipment/Component/Material manufacturers and subcontractors are to submit documentation indicating
certification under an International Scheme such as ISO 9001, API Q1 or equivalent.
Manufacturers of threaded fasteners per 5-1/11 of this Guide are to be qualified to API 20E or 20F and are
to certify that the products meet the requirements of API 20E or 20F.

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 2
Materials for Structural and Mechanical Load-Bearing Components
1 General
Materials for structural and mechanical load-bearing components are to be selected in accordance to the
applicable design codes with consideration to toughness, corrosion resistance, and weldability, and be
suitable for their intended service conditions.
Structural and mechanical load-bearing components that are in the load path are to be considered as
“primary”. Structural load-bearing materials are to comply with the following requirements:
i) For hoisting and handling structures:

a) Hoisting structures. Refer to 2-4/9 for primary load-bearing structural members
b) Handling structures – Refer to 2-6/5
ii) For lifting structures. Refer to 2-6/3:
iii) Materials for structural and mechanical load-bearing components not covered by, or not in full
compliance with EN, API, ASME or applicable recognized standards, the following Charpy V-
Notch criteria in 5-2/Table 1, applies.
3 Toughness
i) Structural materials are to exhibit impact toughness which is satisfactory for the intended
applications (hoisting, handling, lifting), as evidenced by appropriate Charpy V-notch (CVN)
longitudinal impact testing results, and are to be based on the specified minimum design service
temperature (MDST) and material’s specified minimum yield strength (SMYS), as specified in
5-2/Table 1. CVN values shall be determined from the average of three tests, Refer to 2-1-1/11.11
of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2).
ii) Other CVN criteria or alternative test data, such as crack-tip opening displacement (CTOD), nil
ductility transition (NDT) temperature, or related service experience will be considered if
submitted to ABS prior to manufacturing.
iii) It should be noted that other national and international regulatory bodies may have additional
requirements for toughness. Any additional toughness requirements in the scope of the design
review and fabrication inspection, is to be performed, as applicable, and/or as requested.

Section 2 Materials for Structural and Mechanical Load-Bearing Components 5-2
Table 1
Toughness (Structural Materials)
Design Service
Minimum CVN avg. CVN Test
Item Material Category Temperature (DST) Yield Stregnth N/mm2(ksi)
Value(1), J (ft-lb) Temperature(6)
°C (°F)
≤ 270 (39) 27 (20)
SMYS/10 (SMYS/
> 270 (39) to ≤ 420 (61)
1.97)
-20 (-4) and above > 420 (61) to ≤ DST
42 (31)
690(5)-(100)
> 690 (100) to ≤ 800

50 (37)
Primary Structural (116)
1
members ≤ 270 (39) 27(20)
SMYS/10 (SMYS/
> 270 (39) to ≤ 420 (61)
1.97)
10°C (18°F)
Lower than -20 (-4) > 420 (61) to ≤
42 (31) below DST
690(5)-(100)
> 690 (100) to ≤ 800

50 (37)
(116)
-20 (-4) and above ≤ 270 (39) to 800 (116) 27 (20) DST
> 270 (39) 27 (20)

SMYS/10 (SMYS/
> 270 (39) to ≤ 420 (61)
Non-Primary 1.97)
2
structural members(2) Lower than -20 (-4) DST
> 420 (61) to ≤
42 (31)
690(5)-(100)
> 690 (100) to ≤ 800

50 (37)
(116)
3 Miscellaneous(3) Lower than -20 (-4) ≤ 270 (39) to 800 (116) As required for applications
As required by material specifications at
4 Primary bolts(4) All temperatures All yields
MDST
Notes:
1 Individual value for each of the (3) test specimens cannot be less than 2 3 of the specified minimum average.
2 Structure which is not classified as primary load bearing is termed "non-primary".

3 For miscellaneous structures, under the scope of this Guide, refer to items such as ladders, supports, walkways,
handrails, cable trays, and other ancillary structures. In general, materials for these structures are low in thickness
and are to be suitable for their intended application, as evidenced by previous satisfactory services.
4 Primary Bolts: Primary load-bearing structural bolts are to be produced to a material specification that requires
Charpy impact tests at, or below, the specified minimum design service temperature, in accordance with
recognized standards. In addition, bolts are to comply with applicable standards such as API 20E and 20F.
5 For a specified minimum design service temperature (MDST) above 0°C (32°F), Charpy V-Notch impact testing is
to be performed at 0°C (32°F).
6 Non-primary steel below 12.5 mm thickness, supplied in killed or semi killed condition, is exempted from Charpy
impact testing.

Section 2 Materials for Structural and Mechanical Load-Bearing Components 5-2
7 CVN for thicknesses for materials less than 6 mm (0.25 in.) is not required unless specifically required by the
design specification.
8 Refer to 5-5/3iv) for cold forming.

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 3
Materials for Pressure-Retaining/Containing/ Controlling Equipment and
Piping Components
1 General
Materials for pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment or piping components are to be selected
in accordance to the applicable design codes with consideration to toughness, corrosion resistance, and
weldability, and to be suitable for their intended service conditions.
3 Toughness
Toughness testing for pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment or piping components is to be
performed in accordance with the relevant EN, API, ASME or applicable recognized standard.
i) Toughness testing procedures, size, locations and retesting (as applicable) are to be in accordance
with the applicable recognized standard.
ii) The absorbed energy requirement and test temperature is to be in accordance with the relevant EN,
API, ASME or applicable recognized standard.
iii) Materials for pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment or piping components not
covered by, or not in full compliance with EN, API, ASME or applicable recognized standards,
the Charpy V-Notch criteria shown in 5-3/Table 1 apply:
Material CVN Test
Yield Stregnth N/mm2 (ksi) Minimum CVN avg. Value(1), J (ft-lb)
Category Temperature(3)
SMYS/10 (SMYS/1.97) Minimum
≤ 450 (65)
Pressure 27 (20)
Containing/ 50 (37) Lateral expansion of ≥ 0.38
> 450 (65) to ≤ 690 (100) DST
Retaining/ mm (0.015 in.)(4)
Controlling(2) Note 5 Lateral expansion of ≥ 0.38
> 690 (100)(5)
mm (0.015 in.)(4)
Notes:
1 Individual value for each of the (3) test specimens cannot be less than 2/3 of the specified minimum
average. Tested in the longitudinal direction

Section 3 Materials for Pressure-Retaining/Containing/ Controlling Equipment and Piping 5-3
Components
2 Charpy V-Notch (CVN) impact testing is to be performed at the required temperature in the relevant
API, ASME or applicable standard or the minimum design service temperature (MDST), whichever is
lower.
3 For a specified MDST above 0°C (32°F), Charpy V Notch impact testing is to be performed at 0°C
(32°F)
4 Lateral expansion opposite the notch
5 CVN properties are to be submitted for consideration.
6 Refer to 5-5/3 for cold forming.
iv) Other CVN criteria or alternative test data, such as crack-tip opening displacement (CTOD), nil
ductility transition (NDT) temperature, or related service experience will be considered if
submitted to ABS prior to manufacturing.
v) It should be noted that other national and international regulatory bodies may have additional
requirements for toughness. ABS will include these additional toughness requirements in the
scope of the design review and fabrication inspection, as applicable, and/or as requested.

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 4
Material Manufacturing Considerations
1 General
All materials are to be manufactured in accordance with requirements indicated in the material
specifications (See Chapter 5, Section 1).
Test coupons are required for each final heat treatment for verification of mechanical properties to the
material specification and/or industry standards.
It is the equipment or component manufacturers’ responsibility to ensure the material manufacturers and/or
their sub-suppliers/vendors comply with the following requirements:
i) Material Manufacturers or sub-suppliers/vendors have an accredited and effective quality control
system to meet the materials specifications and manufacturing requirements in accordance with
requirements as referenced in the design codes and standards.
ii) Material test facilities shall maintain a quality process for equipment calibration and record
controls and must be certified by international or national recognized authorities.
iii) Material testing is performed in accordance with the requirements of the applicable material
specifications and in accordance with the design codes and standards.
iv) Materials certificates are valid for the materials they represent.
v) NDE is carried out by qualified personnel in accordance with requirements as referenced in the
design codes and standards, such as ISO 9712, ASNT, EN 473, etc. See Chapter 6, Section 4.
Specific nondestructive examination requirements may be required for some product forms.
3 Rolled Products
Plates, shapes and bars may be supplied in the as-rolled, thermo-mechanically processed, normalized, or
quenched and tempered condition, and shall conform to recognized standards.
Where the design requires through thickness properties, materials shall be tested for reduction of area in
the through-thickness direction in accordance with EN 10164, ASTM A770, 2-1-1/17 of the ABS Rules
Materials and Welding (Part 2), or any other recognized standard. The minimum reduction is to be 25%.
5 Forging
Forged products are to comply with the following requirements:

Section 4 Material Manufacturing Considerations 5-4
i) To be supplied in a worked condition. The forging reduction ratio from an ingot is not to be less
than 3 to 1. The microstructure is to be fully wrought and meet specification requirements for
internal soundness.
ii) Samples for testing are to be taken from integrally forged coupons, or from appropriately designed
separately forged coupons or a sacrificial forging.
iii) Unless otherwise approved by ABS, these coupons are to be subjected to the same heat treatment
as the forging in the same furnace batch. Subject to approval, alternative practices for coupon
selection/representation of heats/melts such as those specified in API 16 series standards may be
used provided the heat treatment provisions of the standards are applied in full.
iv) Weld repairs on raw material forgings and rolled products is not permitted unless specified by the
equipment manufacturer using documented approved procedures.
7 Castings
Cast products are to comply with the following requirements:
i) Cast products are to be supplied in a heat-treated condition. Samples for testing are to be taken
from integrally cast coupons or appropriately designed separately cast coupons.
ii) Test coupons are to be subjected to the same heat treatment as the casting, in the same furnace
batch. Subject to approval, alternative practices for coupon selection/representation of heats/melts
such as those specified in API 16 series standards may be used provided the heat treatment
provisions of the standards are applied in full.
iii) Weld repairs of defects and unacceptable indications on raw material castings are to be carried out
in accordance with recognized codes and standards. In general repairs are to be carried out before
final heat treatment.

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 5
Material Fabrication Considerations
1 Welding
Welding of materials used in the fabrication of drilling equipment and/or components is to comply with the
following requirements:
i) Welding is to be in accordance with the specified design/manufacturing code and Chapter 6 of this
Guide.
ii) Weldments, weld metal and/or heat-affected zone (HAZ), subject to sour (H2S) service are to be
in compliance with NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 as applicable.
3 Forming
If the structural steel is formed, the forming of materials utilized in drilling equipment and/or components
are to comply with the following requirements:
i) In general, for steel components, forming at temperatures between 205°C (400°F) and 425°C
(800°F) is to be avoided.
ii) Where degradation of properties is unavoidable, complete post forming heat treatment may be
required.
iii) Suitable supporting data is to be provided to indicate compliance with the specified properties.
iv) For materials with specified toughness properties that are to be cold formed beyond 3% strain* on
the outer fiber, data are to be provided indicating that the toughness properties meet the minimum
requirements after forming.
v) After straining, specimens used in toughness tests are to be subjected to an artificial aging
treatment of 288°C (550°F) for one hour.
Note: * For details, see 2-4-1/3.13 of the ABS Rules for Materials and Welding (Part 2).
5 Galvanizing
Materials for galvanized structures are to be fabricated and designed in accordance with industry-
recommended practices. Welds on galvanized structures may require suitable alternative inspection
techniques and inspection at specific stages of fabrication.

Section 5 Material Fabrication Considerations 5-5
Galvanizing procedures and/or process are to be in accordance with ASTM A143, A153, A384, A385,
BCSA 40/05, and/or other hot-dip galvanizing standards, and are to be submitted for ABS records. The
following are to be considered in the development of galvanizing procedures and processes
i) High-strength steels with yields above 355 MPa (51 ksi)
ii) Adequate venting and draining
iii) Double-dipping practices are not permitted, except in case of galvanizing tank size limitations
iv) Pre-heating/warming prior to dipping
v) Trace elements in base metal and low Silicon weld consumables
vi) Grinding of flame cut edges to remove sharp discontinuities and carbon deposits
vii) Weld surface appearance free from undercuts, notches, etc.
viii) Inspection before and after hot-dip galvanizing
ix) Strain age embrittlement of cold-formed sections
x) Abrupt changes in cross section
xi) Maximum CE of 0.44% (See CEZ calculation below) based upon the Product Analysis or if Ladle
Analysis then maximum specified chemistry values should be applied in the calculation. Steel
which is produced from scrap may contain trace elements that influence the susceptibility to hot
dip galvanizing cracking. See CEZ calculation below.
xii) CEZ = C + Si/17 + Mn/7.5 + Cu/13 + Ni/17 + Cr/4.5 + Mo/3 + V/1.5 + Nb/2 + Ti/4.5 + 420B

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 6
Sealing (Metallic and Non-metallic) Materials
1 General
The manufacturer’s specifications for pressure-containing or pressure-controlling seals shall include the
following:
i) Metallic – Grade, chemistry; Non-Metallic - Generic base polymer (refer ASTM D1418)
ii) Mechanical properties requirements
iii) Storage and age control requirements;
iv) Testing and NDE requirements; acceptance and/or rejection criteria per applicable standards.
3 Elastomeric Sealants
i) Materials used for sealing are to be suitable for the intended operating pressures, temperatures,
and operating mediums.
ii) Age-sensitive materials for critical components are to have a defined storage life and be identified
in storage as to month and year of manufacture.
5 Ring Joint Gaskets

i) Metal (such as Ring joint) gaskets are to be of soft iron, low carbon steel or stainless steel, as
required by the design standard.
ii) Gaskets that are coated with a protective coating material such as fluorocarbon or rubber for
shipment and storage are to have the coatings removed prior to installation.

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 7
Documentation and Traceability
1 Material Documentation
Materials used for primary structural load-bearing, mechanical load-bearing components, pressure-
retaining, pressure containing and pressure controlling parts/components, and piping are to be furnished
with material manufacturer/mill’s documentation (e.g., material test reports (MTR), etc.) stating, as a
minimum, the following, as applicable:
i) Material specification, grade
ii) Product heat number/batch number
iii) Process of manufacture, including melting practices, reduction ratio (if applicable)
iv) Chemical analysis, with tolerance ranges and testing standard(s) as required by the material
standard.
v) Mechanical properties – including acceptance, rejection criteria and testing standard(s).
vi) Heat treatment records (showing heat treatment times at temperatures, heating and cooling rate,
quenching media, transfer time, and any required photographic evidence of components in furnace
showing compliance to the furnace loading diagram, heat treating equipment)
vii) Re-heat treatment information, if applicable
viii) Surface treatment information – surface hardening, plating, thermal spraying, cladding etc.
ix) Charpy impact values and temperatures, including testing standard.
x) Hardness test readings (as applicable to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156), including testing standard
xi) Certification by the material manufacturer/mill of compliance with the applicable recognized
material specification or manufacturer’s written specification. For example: 3.1 certification per
EN 10204.
xii) Repair-welding requirements
xiii) NDE results including acceptance and rejection criteria
xiv) Corrective actions and disposition of major non-conformances during the material manufacturing
or forming process

CHAPTER 5
SECTION 8
Nondestructive Testing (NDE)
1 General
Surface and/or volumetric examination is to be performed on materials (castings, forgings and rolled
products) used for primary load bearing and mechanical components; pressure retaining/containing/
controlling equipment and piping systems, as per applicable standard and specification. The NDE methods
outlined in Chapter 6, are to be applied, to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
3 Specifications, Procedures and Material Documentation

NDE procedures are to be verified by the attending Surveyor as required in Chapter 7 and 3-2/Tables 1
through 10. Refer to Chapter 6 for detailed requirements.
In case of advanced NDE inspection techniques such as phased array UT, at the discretion of the attending
Surveyor, the NDE procedures may be submitted to ABS Materials Engineering Department for review.
5 Qualification of NDE Technicians:

Refer to Chapter 6, Section 4 for requirements
7 Extent of Examination of Cast and Wrought Materials and Repair

Welds
The extent of NDE for materials, repair welds to materials and on locations where temporary attachments
have been removed is to comply with the following requirements:
i) Materials (castings, forgings and rolled product) are to be examined in accordance with a
recognized standard or design code, by nondestructive methods capable of detecting and sizing
significant surface and internal defects.
ii) ii) Stress concentrations, sharp edges/corners, etc., of materials (casting, forgings and rolled
product) are to be examined for flaws by methods capable of detecting and sizing significant
internal defects.
iii) iii) Repair welds are to be subjected to 100% surface NDE, and volumetric NDE if applicable or if
required by the design code.
iv) iv) Locations where welds for temporary attachments have been removed are to be subject to
100% surface NDE.

Section 8 Nondestructive Testing (NDE) 5-8
NDE reports are to be verified by the attending Surveyor. The Surveyor may require additional testing in
order to verify product quality or quality of weld repairs. Weld related examinations are to be carried out
after any post weld heat treatment.
9 Methods and Acceptance Criteria

Refer to Chapter 6 for applicable design codes and standards.

CHAPTER 6
Welding and Nondestructive Examination
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General..............................................................................................156
1 General....................................................................................... 156
SECTION 2 Welding............................................................................................. 157

1 General....................................................................................... 157
3 Welding Procedure Specification................................................157
5 Filler Materials............................................................................ 158
7 Welder/Welding Operator Qualification...................................... 158
SECTION 3 Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) ................................................159

1 General....................................................................................... 159
SECTION 4 Nondestructive Examination (NDE)............................................... 160

1 General....................................................................................... 160
3 NDE Procedures.........................................................................160
5 Qualification of NDE Technicians................................................160
SECTION 5 Extent of Nondestructive Examination on Welds......................... 162

1 General....................................................................................... 162
3 Extent of NDE............................................................................. 162
TABLE 1 Nondestructive Testing (NDT) of Steel Structural Welds... 163
SECTION 6 Inspection for Delayed (Hydrogen-Induced) Cracking.................164

1 Time of Inspection...................................................................... 164
3 Delayed Cracking Occurrences.................................................. 164
SECTION 7 NDT Methods and Acceptance Criteria..........................................165

1 General....................................................................................... 165
3 Magnetic Particle Examination................................................... 165
5 Liquid Penetrant Examination.....................................................165

7 Radiographic Examination..........................................................165
9 Ultrasonic Examination............................................................... 166
11 Hardness Testing........................................................................ 166
SECTION 8 Record Retention............................................................................. 167

1 General....................................................................................... 167

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 1
General
1 General
Welding related to processes of fabrication and repair and associated nondestructive examination (NDE)
are to be performed in accordance with the equipment or component design codes and standards. 134 ABS

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 2
Welding
1 General
All welds, including overlay welds, tack welds and weld repairs of pressure-retaining/containing/
controlling equipment, piping systems, mechanical load-bearing and structural components are to be
fabricated using qualified welding procedures in accordance with the recognized and applicable codes and
standards, by qualified welders.
3 Welding Procedure Specification

A written welding procedure specification (WPS) is to be prepared in accordance with the applicable
Code, such as Section IX of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, or ANSI/AWS D1.1 Structural
Welding Code, or an alternative recognized standard. The WPS and the supporting procedure qualification
record (PQR) are to be verified by the attending Surveyor.
i) The WPS is to describe in detail all essential and nonessential variables, and when applicable,
supplementary essential variables to the welding processes employed in the procedure.
ii) Welding procedure specifications are to be qualified by testing and the supporting PQR is to
include the following test data, which is to be made available to the attending Surveyors:
a) Maximum hardness values (for well bore fluid service)
b) Minimum and average CVN toughness values for weld heat-affected zone and weld metal
((including lateral expansion if required), where the base metal is required to be impact-
tested in accordance with Chapters 2 or 5 of this Guide)
c) Minimum tensile strength
d) Results from other tests required by the applicable code or standard
e) Mechanical tests are to be carried out after any post weld heat treatment.
iii) Where welding is outside of the essential variable limits or, when applicable, supplementary
essential variable limits defined in the existing WPS, the PQR is to be re-qualified.
iv) Except as indicated in 6-2/3vi), the Surveyor can accept, at his discretion, welding procedures and
welder qualifications at shipyard or manufacturing plant where it is established to his satisfaction
that they have been qualified and effectively used for similar work in accordance with this Guide
and recognized standards.

Chapter 6 Welding and Nondestructive Examination
Section 2 Welding 6-2
v) The qualification process may require the submittal of relative WPS and supporting PQRs to the
ABS Materials Engineering Department for review and agreement, at the discretion of the
attending Surveyor.
vi) In the case of high pressure piping designed in accordance with ANSI/ASME B31.3 Section IX
and required to comply with NACE MR0175/ISO 15156, the WPS and supporting PQR for
welding shall be submitted to the ABS Materials Engineering Department for review and
agreement.
vii) Weld procedures can be qualified at a designated facility and may be used at other locations under
the same quality management system, provided it is agreed to by the purchaser and ABS.
5 Filler Materials
The strength, toughness and chemical composition of filler materials is to be comparable to that of the base
material. Selection shall be based on requirements of applicable recognized codes and standards. Filler
materials not listed in any recognized codes or standards may be considered and approved upon
performing applicable mechanical tests in the presence of attending surveyor.
Storage conditions of filler materials shall be strictly followed. Storage instructions shall be provided to the
attending surveyor upon request for verification.
7 Welder/Welding Operator Qualification

The Surveyor is to be satisfied that all welders and welding operators are qualified in accordance with the
applicable code for each welding process and for each position used in production welding of systems,
subsystems, equipment or components and structures.
Welder/welding operator qualification and continuity records are to be made available to the Surveyor.

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 3
Post Weld Heat Treatment (PWHT)
1 General
Accurate records of all heat treatments during fabrication, including rates of heating and cooling, hold time
and soaking temperature are to be made available to the Surveyor.
PWHT shall as a minimum be performed in the following cases:
i) When required by the design code,

ii) When necessary to meet the specific mechanical properties (such as NACE hardness
requirements),
iii) When specified by the designer for dimensional stability of machined components,
iv) When PWHT is an essential variable in the WPS
Alternative methods of stress relief will be subject to special consideration by ABS where post-weld heat
treatment is not a requirement of the applicable manufacturing code.
In the case of weld repair, the cumulative PWHT time shall be in accordance with the limits specified in
the qualified WPS and supporting PQR and are to be recorded in the weld maps.
Note: The requirements for PWHT will depend upon the materials used, thickness and application. PWHT may not be
applicable in all cases.

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 4
Nondestructive Examination (NDE)
1 General
Fabrication and repair welds, and welds in locations where temporary attachments have been removed (in
pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment, piping systems, mechanical load-bearing and
structural components), are to be examined for surface and volumetric flaws to the extent specified in the
applicable design and/or fabrication code, but not to a lesser extent than that specified in this chapter.
Weld inspection is to be carried out to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
3 NDE Procedures
NDE procedures and the requirements and extent of NDE are to be developed in accordance with the
requirements of the selected design and/or fabrication codes for the drilling systems, subsystems,
equipment and/or components for the intended service.
NDE procedures specifying testing parameters, extent of examination and acceptance criteria, are to be
verified by the attending Surveyor.
At the discretion of the attending Surveyor, the NDE procedures may be required to be submitted to the
ABS Materials Engineering Department for review. Advanced NDE inspection techniques are to be in
accordance to the ABS Guide for Nondestructive Inspection.
5 Qualification of NDE Technicians

The Surveyor is to be satisfied that personnel responsible for conducting nondestructive tests are trained
and qualified to operate the equipment being used and that the technique used is suitable for the intended
application. For each inspection method, personnel are to be qualified by training, with appropriate
experience and certified to perform the necessary calibrations and tests and to interpret and evaluate
indications in accordance with the terms of the specification. Personnel are to be certified in accordance
with the International Standard ISO 9712 – Non-destructive testing – Qualification and certification of
personnel or other internationally/nationally recognized certifying programs (e.g., ASNT Central
Certification Program (ACCP) CP-106, EN-473 etc.).
American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A or
equivalent can be used as a guideline for employers to establish their written practice for qualification and
certification of their personnel. Manufacturers adopting this practice are to have an appropriately qualified
level 3 NDE operator on their own staff or on appointment.

Section 4 Nondestructive Examination (NDE) 6-4
Certification documents of NDE technicians are to be made available to the Surveyor.

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 5
Extent of Nondestructive Examination on Welds
1 General
All weldments and other critical sections covered in 6-5/Table 1 are to be subjected to 100% visual
examination, surface nondestructive examination, and volumetric nondestructive examination in
accordance with the relevant design code, the ABS Guide for Nondestructive Inspection, and this Guide.
Examinations are to be carried out after any post weld heat treatment.
3 Extent of NDE
Furthermore, the extent of NDE on welds is to comply with the following requirements:
i) Welds of structural members are to be inspected in accordance with 6-5/Table 1. In addition
changes in geometry, sharp edges/corners, etc., are to be examined for flaws by methods capable
of detecting and sizing significant internal defects.
ii) Repair welds are to be subject to 100% surface NDE. Repairs to complete joint penetration welds
(CJP) are to be subject to 100% volumetric NDE, where accessible.
iii) Welds for mechanical load-bearing components or pressure-retaining/containing/controlling
equipment are to be examined, in accordance with the relevant design code, by nondestructive
methods capable of detecting and sizing significant surface and internal defects.
iv) NDE Reports are to be verified by the attending ABS Surveyor.
v) Weld considered suspect by the attending Surveyor, may require additional testing in order to
verify product or weld quality.

Section 5 Extent of Nondestructive Examination on Welds 6-5
TABLE 1
Nondestructive Testing (NDT) of Steel Structural Welds
Structural Member Extent and Type of NDT

20% volumetric NDT and 20% surface NDT for all complete joint penetration (CJP)
welds, where welded plate thickness is ≥ 8 mm (5/16 inch) and
Welds in primary 20% volumetric NDT and 20% surface NDT for all partial joint penetration (PJP)
Structure(1,2) welds, where the design weld penetration is ≥ 19 mm (3/4 inch)
20% surface NDT of all fillet and other partial joint penetration welds, where
welded plate thickness is ≥ 8 mm (5/16 inch)
Random volumetric NDT of complete joint penetration (CJP) welds and surface
Welds in non-primary
NDT of fillet and partial penetration joint (PJP) welds, only if considered suspect by
Structure
the attending Surveyor during construction
Notes:
1 Primary structure welds which are single point failure, with no redundancy, and are considered critical by the
designer, will require 100% Volumetric NDT plus 100% Surface NDT
2 Volumetric NDT of partial joint penetration (PJP) welds is to be carried out using Ultrasonic testing methods to
verify the design penetration depth and integrity of the weld. UT scan indications at the weld root are not
necessarily considered defects.

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 6
Inspection for Delayed (Hydrogen-Induced) Cracking
1 Time of Inspection
i) Nondestructive testing of weldments in steels of 415 N/mm2 (60,000 psi) specified minimum
yield strength (SMYS) or greater is to be conducted at a suitable interval after welds have been
completed and cooled to ambient temperature. The following guidance of interval is to be used,
unless specially approved otherwise:
● Minimum 48 hours of interval time for steels of 415 MPa (60,000 psi) SMYS or greater but
less than 620 MPa (90,000 psi) SMYS
● Minimum 72 hours of interval time for steel greater than or equal to 620 MPa (90,000 psi)
SMYS
ii) At the discretion of the Surveyor, a longer interval and/or additional random inspection at a later
period may be required. The 72 hour interval may be reduced to 48 hours for radiographic
inspection or ultrasonic inspection, provided a complete visual and random magnetic particle or
dye-penetrant inspection to the satisfaction of the Surveyor is conducted 72 hours after welds have
been completed and cooled to ambient temperature.
iii) The delay period for steels less than 450 MPa (65,000 psi) and less than 12 mm (0.47 in.) thick
may be decreased to 24 hours if the heat input applied during welding is less than 3.5 kJ/mm and
there is satisfactory evidence that there is no hydrogen cracking occurring after 48 hours.
3 Delayed Cracking Occurrences

i) When delayed cracking is encountered in production, previously completed welds are to be
inspected for delayed cracking to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
ii) At the discretion of the Surveyor, re-qualification of procedures or additional production control
procedures may be required to minimize the potential for delayed cracking.
iii) Interval time (prior to non-destructive testing) begins once the weldment has cooled to ambient
temperature. Time used for post weld heat treatment for hydrogen outgassing is considered as
“interval” time and where a documented PWHT stress relief is applied, NDE may be carried out
following completion of the documented PWHT without further delay provided the attending
Surveyor is satisfied with the PWHT process and subsequent weld cracking is not evident.

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 7
NDT Methods and Acceptance Criteria
1 General
The techniques and methods for performing the nondestructive examination and the acceptance standards
to be used for each type of examination, in general, are to be in accordance with the design and applicable
construction codes and standards. Acceptance and/or rejection criteria are to be as per applicable standards
or specification.
Examples of applicable Standards and Codes are given below.
3 Magnetic Particle Examination

i) Methods:
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section V Article 7: “Magnetic Particle
Examination”
● ASTM E709: “Standard Recommended Practice for Magnetic Particle Examination”
ii) Acceptance Criteria:
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, Appendix 6: “Methods for
Magnetic Particle Examination (MT)”
● ANSI/AWS D1.1: “Structural Welding Code – Steel” – Clause 6 Part C
5 Liquid Penetrant Examination

i) Methods:
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section V Article 6: “Liquid Penetrant Examination”
● ASTM E165: “Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Inspection"
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, Appendix 8: “Methods for
Liquid Penetrant Examination (PT)”
7 Radiographic Examination
i) Methods:

Section 7 NDT Methods and Acceptance Criteria 6-7
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section V Article 2: “Radiographic Examination”
● ASTM E94: “Standard Guide for Radiographic Examination”
● ASTM E446: “Standard Reference Radiographs for Steel Castings up to 2 in. in Thickness”
● ASTM E186: “Standard Reference Radiographs for Heavy Walled (2 to 4.5 in.) (51 to 114
mm) Steel Castings”
● ASTM E280: “Standard Reference Radiographs for (4.5 to 12 in.) (114 to 305 mm) Steel
Castings”
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, Appendix 4: “Rounded
Indications Charts Acceptance Standard for Radio graphically Determined Rounded
Indications in Welds.”
9 Ultrasonic Examination
i) Methods:
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section V, Article 4 “UT Examination Methods for
Materials and Fabrication”
● ASTM A388: “Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Heavy Steel Forgings”
● ASTM E428: “Standard Practice for Fabrication and Control of Steel Reference Blocks Used
in Ultrasonic Inspection”
● ASTM E587: “Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Contact Testing”
● ASTM A609: “Standard Practice for Casting, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless
Steel, Ultrasonic Examination Thereof”
● ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, Appendix 12: “Ultrasonic
Examination of Welds (UT)”
● API 2X: “Ultrasonic Examination of Offshore Structural Fabrication and Guidelines for
Qualification of Ultrasonic Technicians”
11 Hardness Testing
i) Methods:
● ASTM E10: “Standard Test Methods for Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials”
● ASTM E110: "The Standard Test Method for Rockwell and Brinell Hardness of Metallic
Materials by Portable Hardness Testers"
● ASTM E18: “Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness and Rockwell Superficial
Hardness of Metallic Materials”
● ASTM E92: “Standard Test Method for Vickers Hardness of Metallic Materials”
● NACE MR0175/ISO 1515: “Materials for use in H2S containing environments in oil and gas
production”

CHAPTER 6
SECTION 8
Record Retention
1 General
In addition to the requirements of the applicable Codes and Standards (i.e., API specs, etc.), the
manufacturer is to maintain the following records for a period of 10 years, and these records are to be
made available to the ABS upon request:
i) Weld Procedure Specification (WPS). As specified in applicable recognized code or standard.
ii) Procedure Qualification Records (PQR). As specified in applicable recognized code or standard
iii) Welder/welding operator qualification test records including the date and test results and
subsequent production records for qualification continuity.
iv) The manufacturer should have a system in place to record welders work. If weld repairs are
required records of the repair locations associated with the welder identification are to be available
to the Surveyor.
v) Qualification records for all personnel performing nondestructive examinations and evaluating
results of examination
vi) Nondestructive Examination reports, location of inspection, including radiographs (the
manufacturer is to provide a suitable viewer to properly illuminate radiographs). The examination
report shall include but is not limited to the following:
● Date of testing
● Name and qualification level of personnel
● Testing technique
● Identification of material/product to be tested
● Heat treatment
● Surface condition
● Test standards used
● Testing conditions
● Results
● Statement of acceptance/non acceptance
● Details of weld repair (if applicable) including sketch

Section 8 Record Retention 6-8
vii) Manufacturing records (refer to 5-7/1)

CHAPTER 7
Surveys at Vendor's Plant During Installation and Commissioning
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General..............................................................................................170
1 General....................................................................................... 170
SECTION 2 Surveys at Manufacture and During Assembly............................ 171

1 General Survey Requirements................................................... 171
3 Documentation for Surveyor Review.......................................... 174
5 Testing of Well Control Equipment and BOPs............................ 175
7 Testing of Marine Drilling Riser System and Associated
Components............................................................................... 175
9 Testing of Drill String Compensation System..............................175
11 Testing of Bulk Storage, Circulating and Transfer Systems........176
13 Testing of Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating, and Handling Systems..... 176
15 Testing of Skid Structures........................................................... 176
SECTION 3 Onboard Surveys During Installation............................................ 177

1 General....................................................................................... 177
3 Testing of Base-mounted Winches and Other Lifting
Appliances Dedicated to Drilling Operations.............................. 179
5 Testing of Burner/Flare Boom..................................................... 180
SECTION 4 Commissioning Surveys of the Drilling Systems......................... 181

1 General....................................................................................... 181

CHAPTER 7
SECTION 1
General
1 General
This Chapter pertains to surveys of drilling systems, related subsystems, equipment, and/or components at
the vendor’s manufacturing plant and subsequent installation onboard for system assembly and completion
of trials prior to issuance of Class Certificates.

CHAPTER 7
SECTION 2
Surveys at Manufacture and During Assembly
1 General Survey Requirements

When the Surveyor’s attendance at the manufacturer’s plant and at the assembly site is required for
classification of the drilling system, the manufactured/assembled system, equipment and/or component
will be verified for satisfactory compliance with the ABS approved drawings, applicable codes and/or
standards, material supply requirements and the additional requirements of this Guide. See 3-2/Tables 1
through 10 for drilling system, subsystem, equipment, and/or component design review, fabrication survey
and testing requirements. Test procedures are to be to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor in
accordance with the applicable design standards and the requirements of this Guide.
The classed drilling system consists of many sub parts from different worldwide locations. The vendor
coordination system required by 3-2/9 is applied to confirm that all equipment requirements are met and
coordinated through to installation and testing. The following is required for equipment requiring “unit
certification”.
i) A prefabrication or kick-off meeting/discussion between the manufacturer/fabricator and ABS-
designated Surveyor(s) is to be carried out and documented in order, but not limited to:
a) Confirm and/or establish the main point of contacts (PoC) for the manufacturer and ABS
b) Review the project quality plans including nondestructive testing.
c) Review proposed manufacturing specification
d) Review project manufacturing and delivery schedules
e) Review and confirm Surveyor examination requirements including but not limited to
monitoring, hold points and documents review
f) Confirm sub-contractor qualifications to the vendor’s quality assurance plan.
g) Confirm manufacturing specifications per item ii) of this section, access to ABS approved
drawings and/or documentation associated with the design and manufacturing process
h) Confirm Vendor Coordination and related functional responsibilities
i) Confirm plans for testing during and after fabrication and testing to be carried out after
installation.
j) Confirm FMEA/FMECA Validation testing plans and location of testing.

Chapter 7 Surveys at Vendor's Plant During Installation and Commissioning
Section 2 Surveys at Manufacture and During Assembly 7-2
k) Confirm the process for handling major non-conformances and major engineering
changes
l) Where applicable, confirm, by review of quality control documentation of the
manufacturers product control management system, that threaded fasteners used for
closure bolting, pressure controlling applications, pressure retaining bolting for hydraulic
connectors including bolts potentially exposed to wellbore fluids supplied by
subcontractors complies with 5-1/11 and 5-1/13.
Threaded fasteners used for closure, pressure controlling and pressure retaining for
hydraulic connectors and bolts potentially exposed to wellbore fluids as identified in
5-1/11 and 5-1/13 are to be visually examined for surface flaws, out of roundness,
straightness, and dimensional tolerances. The surveyor, in case of doubt, may require
additional nondestructive testing. Surveyor is to confirm and witness the process for
installation as identified in 7-2/1ii)j), 7-2/5v), and 7-2/3ii)k).
ii) Manufacturing plans, specifications and/or fabrication details are to include, but not limited to, as
applicable:
a) Quality plan and specifications
b) WPS and PQR, WPQ and weld maps
c) NDE procedures and NDE reports
d) Detailed Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs), including associated test procedures for
system, subsystem, equipment or component, as outlined in 3-2/Tables 1 through 10, as
applicable during:
● Manufacturing (Factory acceptance testing)
● Installation
● Commissioning
● In-service (Recommended periodic testing)
e) Surface treatment (electroplating, galvanizing, etc.) plans and specifications as applicable
f) Installation, and Commissioning plans and procedures
g) Maintenance and Operating manuals
h) FMEA and FMECA requirements and Validation testing to be included in the FAT
procedures
i) Procedures for the disposition of major manufacturing non-conformances and major
engineering changes
j) Procedures for the installation and testing of threaded fasteners used for closure, pressure
controlling and pressure retaining bolting for hydraulic connectors and bolts potentially
exposed to wellbore fluids.
iii) FMEA Validation test procedures are to be submitted for ABS Technical review.
iv) Design validation tests required by the design standard, factory acceptance and commissioning
tests are to be carried out to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. At the discretion of the
Surveyor, test procedures may be required to be submitted for technical review.
v) Surveyor’s attendance is typically (but not limited) for the following purposes:
a) To confirm that the facilities to manufacture, fabricate or repair drilling system,
subsystem, equipment, and/or components have an accredited and maintain an effective
quality assurance program (API Q1, ISO 9001 or equivalent) covering design,

procurement, manufacturing and testing, as applicable, and meeting the requirements of a

recognized standard applied to their product.
b) To qualify or verify welder’s qualifications to the extent deemed necessary by the
attending Surveyor.
c) To qualify or verify welding procedure specifications and corresponding weld procedure
qualification records to the extent deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.
d) To verify material certificates/documentation [see 7-2/1vi) below].
e) To monitor in process welding, survey fit-up prior to major weldments and witness weld
startup operations.
f) To survey final weldments and witness repair welding.
g) To verify the non-destructive testing program and personnel qualifications in accordance
with Chapter 6 and witness, as far as deemed necessary, nondestructive examination tests
of welds and to review records of nondestructive examinations.
h) To review records of post-weld heat treatment, in particular for piping subjected to
pressurized sour service and subject to NACE MR0175/ISO 15156 requirements.
i) To review major non-conformances and major engineering changes.
j) To verify dimensions are as shown on approved drawings or engineering drawing and
design specifications submitted for review.
k) To check dimensional tolerances and alignment of mating surfaces.
l) To witness design validation testing of drilling equipment or components in accordance
with the applicable design specification. For drilling equipment of an existing design,
documentation of design validation testing is to be submitted for review together with the
design package submittal. Submittals to be verified by the attending Surveyor.
m) To witness pressure and/or proof-load testing of equipment and as a unit, as applicable
and as specified in the fabrication procedures.
n) To witness final testing and functional testing of subassemblies and completed units, as
specified in the fabrication procedures.
o) To verify all purged and pressurized systems, motor controllers, SCR banks, consoles and
instrumentation and control panels are in compliance with approved drawings.
p) To carry out other examinations as agreed upon during prefabrication meeting.
q) To confirm compliance with associated ABS approval letter or IRC.
r) To review final manufacturing Data Book and issue final survey report and CoC, as
applicable.
s) To verify the installation and testing of hydraulic, electrical and pneumatic control
systems together with associated software in accordance with manufacturers testing
procedures.
t) To verify electrical installations are in accordance with the approved design and meet
hazardous zone requirements.
u) To verify FMEA testing in accordance with the ABS approved FMEA Validation testing
procedures. FMEA Validation testing procedures require ABS technical review.
vi) Materials test reports (MTRs) are to be made available to the attending Surveyor during the
manufacturing process. In general, materials associated with equipment and/or components that
require Surveyor’s attendance in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1 through 10, are to have complete

traceability with MTRs. As a minimum, MTRs are to be provided for the following materials as
defined in Chapter 5 of this Guide:
a) Materials for primary structural-load bearing components
b) Materials for primary mechanical-load bearing components
c) Materials for primary pressure-retaining equipment/components
d) All piping, valves and fittings with an ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or greater
e) Bolts and nuts for fastening and/or connections used in pressure retaining, pressure
containing, pressure controlling applications (closure bolting per API 6A, 16A and 20E).
See also 5-1/11 of this Guide.
vii) The Surveyor is to be notified of any major non-conformances and major engineering changes that
affect form, fit or function during the manufacturing, installation and commissioning processes. If
the major non-conformance and associated corrective actions affect form, fit or function or require
rectification processes, such as weld build-up of miss-machined parts, the non-conformance and
proposed corrective action is to be documented and submitted to ABS together with the
Manufacturers Affidavit of Compliance (MAC) stating compliance with the applicable design
specifications.
3 Documentation for Surveyor Review

Traceability through the fabrication process is to be documented on primary structural load-bearing,
mechanical load-bearing components and pressure-retaining/containing/controlling equipment including
threaded fasteners per 5-1/11 and 5-1/13. The manufacturers are responsible for maintaining this
documentation on file and, upon request, are to provide this information to the Surveyor’s satisfaction.
The traceability documentation is to include, but not limited to:

i) Certified Materials Test Report
a) Chemical and mechanical properties for each heat
b) Heat treatment temperatures and time at temperature
c) Charpy impact values and temperatures
d) Hardness test readings (as applicable to NACE MR0175)
e) Hazardous area certification
ii) Manufacturing Processes
a) Welding records with all approved qualifications
b) Post weld heat treatment
c) NDT results
d) Hardness test results (as applied to NACE MR0175)
e) Dimensional check results
f) Hydrostatic pressure tests
g) Low pressure tests and rated pressure tests
h) Load tests
i) Electrical tests
j) Function tests

k) Required tension results in accordance with installation procedures for closure bolts,
pressure controlling applications, pressure retaining bolting for hydraulic connectors and
bolts potentially exposed to well bore fluids as identified in 5-1/11 and 5-1/13. See also
7-2/1ii)j), 7-2/5v), and 7-2/1i).
5 Testing of Well Control Equipment and BOPs

The testing conducted at the manufacturer’s plant and witnessed by the Surveyor for all well control
equipment including choke and kill equipment, diverters, blow out preventers, and auxiliary well control
equipment are to be carried out in accordance with written and/or approved procedures which include the
following:
i) Design validation testing in accordance with API 16A of each new design is to be performed in
the presence of the Surveyor.
ii) A hydrostatic body or shell test, hydraulic operating system test and closed preventer test in
accordance with 3-2/Tables 2 and 4, and the applicable API standards. All tests for drill through
equipment are to be documented by a chart recorder in accordance with API 16A requirements.
iii) A shear ram test to verify shear capacity in accordance with API 16A is required in accordance
with 2-3/3.5 of this Guide.
iv) The manufacturer is to test well control equipment that incorporates a dynamic mode of sealing
for low-pressure integrity at a pressure between 250 and 350 psi per API 53.
v) Verification of installation pre-tension values for closure bolts, pressure controlling applications,
pressure retaining bolting for hydraulic connectors and bolts potentially exposed to well bore
fluids. Pretension is to be carried out by controlled means or alternative means, e.g. prototype
testing, electronic measuring, etc. Pre-tensioning by bolt torque or by hydraulic tensioning device,
is to be in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, which are to be submitted
for review. Elongation of the bolts is to be measured to verify pre-tensioning. At least 10 percent
of the bolts, randomly selected, are to be measured to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.
See also 7-2/1ii)j), 7-2/5v), and 7-2/3ii)k).
vi) During the operational tests at the manufacturer’s plant, a full design differential pressure opening
test is to be carried out for each valve and actuator combination.
Additional testing requirements are to be in accordance with 3-2/Tables 1, 2, 3 and 4.
7 Testing of Marine Drilling Riser System and Associated Components

i) Components of the marine drilling riser system such as the connectors, tensioning unit, riser recoil
system, telescopic joint (slip joint), service lines, etc., (except risers) are to be thoroughly tested to
ascertain their compliance with design requirements and their compatibility in forming the
complete system.
ii) Hydrostatic testing of components is to be carried out at the manufacturer’s plant or rebuilding
facility.
iii) The number of riser joints tested will be as specified in the approved design of the manufacturer,
as required in this Guide. See 3-2 Tables 1, 2, 3 and 4 for additional testing requirements.
9 Testing of Drill String Compensation System

Individual equipment and/or components of the drill string compensation system are to be tested in
accordance with the applicable codes and standards, and 3-2/Tables 1, 2, 5 and 6 of this Guide.

11 Testing of Bulk Storage, Circulating and Transfer Systems

Pressurized components of the bulk storage, circulating, and transfer systems are to be tested in accordance
with the applicable codes and standards, and 3-2/Tables 1, 2, 7 and 8 of this Guide.
13 Testing of Hoisting, Lifting, Rotating, and Handling Systems

Individual equipment and/or components of the hoisting, lifting, rotating, and handling systems are to be
tested (load test, functional test) in accordance with the applicable codes and standards and 3-2/Tables 1, 2,
5, 6, 9 and 10 of this Guide, as applicable.
For tubular handling systems, the following additional testing is to be performed:

i) Mechanized tubular handling systems must have their safety controls verified on computer-based
systems.
ii) Indexing of all mechanical movement must be verified by operational testing. This procedure is to
be carried out in all available fingerboard configurations, and system safety verified.
15 Testing of Skid Structures

Refer to 2-7/11 for technical requirements. Where classed drilling system equipment/components are
permanently mounted on a skid structure, a Surveyor’s attendance is required to verify that the skid
structure is in compliance with ABS reviewed structural design calculations, and to carry out the following
to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor:
i) Verify material test reports (MTRs) of skid materials.
ii) Visual examination of final weldments of skid structure.
iii) Witness load testing of the skid structure and associated lifting attachments. Verify SWL markings
on lift attachments.
iv) Witness surface NDE of weldments of the lifting attachments/lugs or pad eyes.
v) Examination of drip pan arrangements (see 2-7/11.5).

CHAPTER 7
SECTION 3
Onboard Surveys During Installation
1 General
Onboard installation tests of all drilling systems are to be verified by a Surveyor and are to be in
accordance with manufacturer’s test procedures to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. The following
surveys are to be carried out by Surveyors on systems during installation and testing in accordance with
3-2/Tables 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10. At the discretion of the attending Surveyor, test procedures may be required to
be submitted for technical review.
i) Piping systems are to be visually examined, nondestructively examined and pressure-tested, as
required by the ABS MOU Rules or applicable design standards.
ii) Pressure tests conducted on Group I piping systems (refer to 4-2-1/5 of the ABS MOU Rules) are
to be recorded on test charts to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor for the duration of their
tests. Minimum time for holding pressure is to be 15 minutes.
iii) All pressure relief and safety valves ratings are to be verified and tested, as applicable per
procedure agreed to by the attending Surveyor.
iv) Installed choke and kill systems are to be subjected to a low-pressure test between 250 and 350 psi
and pressure-tested at rated working pressure in accordance with API 53. Applicable performance
tests are to be carried out.
v) When final testing of drilling systems requires assembly and installation on-board the facility, it
may not be possible to perform all required testing at vendor’s plant. In this case, FMEA/FMECA
validation testing is to be carried out as part of the system integration testing (SIT) during
commissioning. Any modifications made to the validation test plan are to be submitted for review.
vi) FMEA validation testing remaining for equipment certification is to be completed if not
previously completed at the vendor’s plant.
vii) The well kill function of the cementing unit (or independent kill unit if provided) is to be tested
and verified as being capable of flowing through the choke or kill lines provided. (Including
multiple line configurations).
viii) Derrick:
a) Assembled and installed derrick is to be visually examined, including welding and
bolting, torqueing, water table, crown block and turnover sheave assembly, guide rails for
hoisting equipment, derrick-mounted equipment, and outfitting items.

Section 3 Onboard Surveys During Installation 7-3
b) Derrick dimensional control, final alignment and bolting on the drill floor/substructure
foundations are to comply with manufacturer’s specifications and tolerances.
c) Testing of the derrick is not mandatory, however, when testing is specified by the
contracting party or purchaser of the derrick, load testing is required to be carried out per
Appendix A- SR2 of API 4F with particulars marked on the nameplate.
ix) Mud pump operational test at rated working pressure and rated maximum flow is to be carried out
in accordance with a test procedure agreed by the attending Surveyor.
x) Drawworks: As a minimum, the following tests are to be performed to verify the capacity of the
independent braking systems (as defined in 2-4/9.1) of all drawworks in accordance with the
ABS-approved OEM’s test specifications.
a) Drawwork static brake test, at vendor or onboard installation:
1) See 3-2/Tables 5 and 6 for test load requirements.
2) On self-elevating units, deflection testing of the cantilever may also qualify as
the static and structural testing of drawworks.
3) On column-stabilized or surface type units, where a full rated load test may
constitute increased risk or a safety concern to the unit or personnel, alternative
testing methods such as load testing at a reduced number of lines with
corresponding rated load may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Request for
such consideration is to be submitted to ABS and approved by the Assistant
Chief Surveyor – Offshore, prior to commencement of the test.
b) Other brake test, at vendor or onboard installation:
1) Brake Burnishing Test. Burnishing test is to be performed for the caliper brake
with consideration to brake’s clamping force, drum speed, RPM, or motor speed.
The following tasks are to be performed:
● Temperature at calipers and motor are to be monitored and recorded.
● The burnishing results such as percentage of lining contact, bright surface,
etc., are to be monitored and recorded.
● Verification of “gapping”, the distance between the brakes and the brake
discs, is to be performed and recorded.
2) Brake Verification. After the brake burnishing test, individual verification of each
caliper is to be performed, as applicable, under drum/motor load.
● Motor amperage and voltage, hydraulic pressure, and loads, as applicable,
associated with caliper slippage are to be monitored and recorded.
● Each caliper must demonstrate adequate capacity as designed.
3) Electromagnetic/Regenerative Brake Test:
● Electromagnetic/regenerative braking system tests are to be performed for
compliance with approved OEM’s specifications.
● Additional provisions of the drawworks electromagnetic braking system are
provided in 2-4/9.1.
c) Functional test, at vendor or onboard installation:
1) Rotational Check:
● Verify rotation for both directions.
2) Rotational Test: Rotational test is to be performed at 100% rated drum/motor
speed in both directions for a period of at least five minutes. Repeat this step

three (3) times or in accordance with OEM specifications. The following are to
be monitored and recorded for each test:
● Bearing temperature for motor, gearbox and drum
● Gearbox temperature
● Drum temperature
d) Functional testing of all safety devices including anti-2 blocking and motor pinion
slippage detection on active heave drawworks systems
xi) Systems, subsystems, equipment and component associated with tensioning system and
compensation system are to be tested in accordance with 3-2/Table 6.
xii) Systems, subsystems, equipment and component associated with all hoisting, lifting, handling and
rotating systems are to be tested in accordance with 3-2/Tables 6 and 10
Note: Riser hang off tools are to be tested in accordance with API 16F.
xiii) All drilling systems and associated subsystems and equipment are to be checked for proper
operation.
xiv) Control system and shutdowns are to be tested to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
xv) All wiring and electrical connections are to be checked for continuity and proper workmanship in
accordance with the
xvi) The supply, control, use, installation and non-destructive testing of threaded fasteners including
closure bolts, pressure controlling applications and pressure retaining bolts used on hydraulic
connectors and threaded fasteners subject to wellbore fluids per 5-1/11 is to be verified. See also
7-2/1i), 7-2/1ii)j), 7-2/3k) and 7-2/5iv).
xvii) The CDS equipment listing developed and completed by the attending Surveyor(s) after
manufacturing, installation and commissioning of the drilling system is to be provided to the
contracting party. Upon Classing of the drilling system, the equipment list will be duplicated on
the unit’s ABS records.
3 Testing of Base-mounted Winches and Other Lifting Appliances

Dedicated to Drilling Operations
Testing of base-mounted winches and other lifting appliances are to comply with the following
requirements and procedures:
i) Load Test – After installation, the system is to be tested with a load as per the Lifting Appliance
Guide (equal to 1.1 to 1.25 times the rated capacity) in the presence of the Surveyor. Satisfactory
operation of power drives and brakes is to be demonstrated. After being tested, the system with all
its components is to be visually examined for permanent deformation and failure.
ii) Performance Test – Testing in the presence of the Surveyor is to demonstrate that rated line pull
can be achieved at rated speed with the outermost layer of wire on the drum.
iii) Brake Holding Test – It is to be demonstrated that the brakes have the ability to stop and hold
100% of the design load. Confirmatory testing to demonstrate the braking effect of variable
frequency drive AC motors is to be carried out upon installation onboard.
Base mounted winches used for personnel lifting are not part of the CDS notation. Refer to the
optional requirements contained in the Lifting Appliance Guide.

5 Testing of Burner/Flare Boom

The adequacy of the boom’s slewing and topping gear is to be demonstrated by testing after the boom’s
installation on the drilling unit. The details of the test procedure are to be agreed upon with ABS and
witnessed by a Surveyor.
Functional testing of the completed assembly is to be carried out by pressure testing from the flexible line
connection flange to the burner head.

CHAPTER 7
SECTION 4
Commissioning Surveys of the Drilling Systems
1 General
Commissioning surveys are to be in accordance with this Guide and approved test procedures and at a
minimum to include verification of the following items by the attending Surveyor during the drilling
system trials:
i) Proper hook-up and testing of the entire drilling system equipment and components is completed
prior to commissioning. This is to include all tests outlined in Chapter 7, Section 3.
ii) Necessary safety precautions are taken during commissioning, which are to include checks of
operational readiness of the fire and gas detection system, fire extinguishing system, ESD systems,
unobstructed escape routes, etc.
iii) Necessary communication procedures are established prior to commissioning.
iv) Necessary emergency procedures are readily available to deal with any contingencies such as
spillage, fire, and other hazards. Drills prior to commencement of commissioning may be carried
out to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor to confirm readiness of these procedures.
v) Readiness of all utility support systems, including main and auxiliary sources for the drilling
system, prior to commissioning. Random start-up and testing of the utility support systems to
extent deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.
vi) Readiness of the purged drilling system equipment/components, and associated alarms and
shutdowns, prior to commissioning, and random testing of the purged alarms systems during
commissioning, to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor.
vii) Proper operation of the mud level alarms while the drilling system is running, including random
simulation of associated alarms.
viii) Proper operation of the hazardous area access and ventilation system while the drilling system is
running, including random simulation of associated alarms and shutdowns.
ix) Satisfactory functioning of all drilling systems installed onboard and covered under this Guide for
a minimum duration of 12 hours. This will include witnessing proper function of the following
systems, as applicable, while simulating actual drilling operations to the extent possible and
practicable, and to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor:
a) Well control system including function testing of BOP control line support and tensioning
on subsea systems

Section 4 Commissioning Surveys of the Drilling Systems 7-4
b) Derrick handling systems: Riser running, compensation/tensioning, hoisting and BOP

handling
c) HP and LP mud circulation systems
d) Dedicated pipe and tubular handling systems
e) Controls and collision avoidance management systems
x) Complete function testing, pressure testing, and control system testing of the well control system
to the satisfaction of the Surveyor. Tests are to be in accordance with API 53 and to include at
least the following:
a) Complete function test of all well control components with the BOP on deck:
● All control stations
● All pods
● All ROV panels and acoustic controls
● All components and preventers of BOP stack
● Latching components
● Deadman and autoshear capabilities
● Emergency disconnect systems
● Remote controls for Choke and kill manifold
● Diverter
b) Pressure testing of the BOP stack:
● Low pressure test
● High pressure test to rated working pressure
● Hydraulic chamber test
xi) Satisfactory functioning of all systems on the backup power source(s) to confirm proper operation.

CHAPTER 8
Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 General..............................................................................................184
1 General....................................................................................... 184
3 Survey Intervals.......................................................................... 184
3.1 Survey of Stock/Spare Equipment and Components.... 185
5 Drilling Equipment Maintenance Records...................................185
7 Use of Temporary Equipment..................................................... 186
9 Leased Drilling Equipment..........................................................186
11 Marine Drilling Riser................................................................... 186
SECTION 2 Surveys Onshore and Issuance of Maintenance Release Notes.187

1 General....................................................................................... 187
SECTION 3 Survey of Drilling Systems............................................................. 189

1 Annual Surveys...........................................................................189
3 Special Periodical Surveys......................................................... 191
5 Well Control Event Survey..........................................................192
SECTION 4 Alternatives to Periodical Survey...................................................193

1 General....................................................................................... 193
3 Survey Based on Preventative Maintenance Techniques...........193
5 Surveys Using Risk-based Techniques...................................... 193
SECTION 5 Modifications, Damage and Repairs.............................................. 194

1 General....................................................................................... 194

CHAPTER 8
SECTION 1
General
1 General (1 February 2021)

The provisions of this Chapter are requirements for the maintenance of Classification of the drilling
systems. These requirements are in addition to the provisions noted in other ABS Rules such as Part 7 of
the ABS MOU Rules.
For purposes of this Section, the commissioning date of the drilling system will be the date on which a
Surveyor issues an Interim Class Certificate for the drilling unit with the applicable CDS notation.
Surveys of classed systems are based on the classification designation and the listing of the equipment on
the unit’s survey status. All requirements apply where all drilling systems covered in this Guide are
classed. Where class has been adjusted to one or more sub notations per 1-2/3, periodic surveys of the
applicable systems will apply.
Chapter 8 Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class is applied to all existing vessels on the
effective date of the Rule Change Notice unless explicitly stated otherwise in this Guide.
3 Survey Intervals (1 July 2020)

All Annual and Special Periodical Surveys of Drilling Systems/Equipment, as defined in Chapter 8,
Section 3, are to be carried out at the same time and interval as the periodical Classification survey of the
drilling unit so that they are recorded with the same crediting date.
i) An Annual Survey of the drilling systems is to be carried out by a Surveyor within three months
before or after of each annual anniversary date of the initial Classification survey.
ii) A Special Periodical Survey of the drilling system is to be carried out within five years of the
initial Classification certification survey and at five-year intervals thereafter.
iii) Required surveys are to be completed within three (3) months of their due dates.
iv) Annual and Special Periodical Surveys may be carried out during a scheduled overhaul period of
the drilling system within the allowable time frames
a) Annual Surveys are to be scheduled to coincide with the planned or routine maintenance
of the BOP stack and/or spare BOP stack as applicable.
b) Special Periodical Surveys are to be scheduled to coincide with the Owner’s planned
major maintenance, inspection and testing of the BOP stack and/or spare BOP stack as
applicable.

Chapter 8 Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class
c) Stock/Spare equipment and components on board the drilling unit are to be surveyed
during Annual and Special Periodical Surveys. Any spare components dedicated to the
unit, such as a spare BOP Stack, are to be included in the survey status of the drilling unit
for periodic surveys.
At the request of the Owner, and upon approval of the proposed arrangements, a system of Continuous
Surveys may be undertaken whereby the Special Periodical Survey requirements are carried out in regular
rotations to complete all requirements of the particular Special Periodical Survey within a five-year period.
i) The completion date of a continuous survey will be recorded to agree with the original due date of
the special periodical cycle.
ii) If the Continuous Survey is completed within three months prior to the due date, the Special
Continuous Survey will be credited to agree with the effective due date.
iii) Each part (item) surveyed becomes due again for survey five years from the date of the survey.
iv) For Continuous Surveys, a suitable notation will be entered in the Record and the date of
completion of the cycle published.
v) If any defects are found during the survey, they are to be dealt with to the satisfaction of the
Surveyor prior to crediting the survey.
vi) ABS reserves the right to authorize extensions of Rule-required Special Continuous Surveys under
extreme circumstances.
3.1 Survey of Stock/Spare Equipment and Components (1 July 2020)

When a stock/spare equipment or component certified by ABS is maintained at an onshore facility and is
not on board a drilling unit, the following requirements are to apply when the item is installed on a drilling
unit with CDS notation more than 12 months after the ABS survey report date:
i) The attending ABS Surveyor at the onshore facility is to issue a Maintenance Release Note
(MRN) as outlined in Chapter 8, Section 2 once the equipment has been deemed satisfactory.
ii) Equipment and/or component is to be examined by an ABS Surveyor before installation in
accordance with Chapter 8, Section 2.
Surveys during installation and commissioning are to be carried out as outlined in Chapter 7, Sections 3
and 4, as applicable.
5 Drilling Equipment Maintenance Records

i) Maintenance plans, and records with repair and replacement history will be reviewed by the
attending Surveyor to establish the scope and content of the required Annual and Special
Periodical Surveys.
ii) Records of changes or additions made to CDS equipment are to be available to the attending
Surveyor for review and verification.
iii) The Surveyor may determine during the periodic survey if the changes are sufficient to warrant
review by ABS Engineering.
iv) Wire rope is to be replaced in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance
procedures.
v) Wire ropes are to be replaced if damage exceeds manufacturer’s specifications for their rated
capacity or if damage could affect smooth passage through sheaves.

7 Use of Temporary Equipment

Where non-classed equipment is required to be substituted for equipment items subject to the applicable
class requirements in accordance with this Guide, the Owner is to notify ABS and the following conditions
apply:
i) Details of the equipment and equipment certifications and changes in associated control systems
are to be submitted to ABS for technical review.
ii) A risk assessment is to be performed to assess any impact on the classed systems and the FMEAs
carried out on the control systems are to be updated to accommodate changes due to the
installation of temporary equipment.
iii) The time period for use of the temporary equipment is to be agreed upon by ABS and the limits of
class are to be established for the agreed period.
iv) A Surveyor’s attendance on board will be required to carry out system testing and Validation of
changes to the FMEA for the control systems
9 Leased Drilling Equipment

When drilling equipment supplied to an ABS classed drilling unit is owned by a company other than the
unit’s owner, ABS can maintain class on the leased equipment at the request of the equipment owner. The
unit will be eligible to receive any sub notation the leased equipment satisfies.
The equipment owner will receive reports detailing the surveys conducted on the equipment. The unit
owner will receive notification of any recommendations that may affect the unit’s sub-notation that the
leased equipment satisfies.
11 Marine Drilling Riser (1 February 2021)

For systems contracted on or after 01 October 2017, the requirements below apply:
Marine drilling riser is frequently stored on locations other than the drilling unit, and can even be shared
between multiple drilling units. In many cases, the riser may be maintained in a storage area for several
years without being used. ABS recognizes that this equipment is not in continual use, and that maintenance
periods for the equipment may be usage based instead of calendar based. To accommodate this operational
profile, ABS requires the owner of the unit to maintain an approved maintenance program.
i) The riser maintenance program is to be submitted for technical review and maintained on board
for verification by the attending Surveyor.
ii) Riser Operations, Maintenance and Inspection manual is to be submitted for technical review and
maintained on board for verification by the attending Surveyor. See 2-3/13.7 for details.
iii) The program is to include requirements for an annual survey by the Owner with an annual report.
The Owner’s annual report is to include a complete listing of all the riser joints included in the
unit’s complement. Each riser is to have the following information available:
a) History of usage
b) Maintenance schedules
c) Maintenance conducted
d) Overhauls completed
e) MRN certificates and reports
f) Current location

CHAPTER 8
SECTION 2
Surveys Onshore and Issuance of Maintenance Release Notes
1 General (1 July 2020)

During operation of the drilling unit when parts of the classed drilling system equipment are returned
ashore for maintenance, repair or modification purposes, it is the responsibility of the Owner to inform
Surveyors of the scope of work at the shore facility/plant.
i) The maintenance of drilling systems, subsystems, equipment or component is to be in accordance

with the Manufacturer’s and Owner’s specifications.
a) Non-Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) personnel are to have demonstrated
competence to perform maintenance and/or overhaul activities.
b) Maintenance and overhaul are to be carried out in accordance with the OEM Manual,
product bulletins, service bulletins, as applicable.
c) Repairs, modifications, and replacement parts are to be in accordance with ABS approved
design where design review is required by this Guide. For further information, see 3-2/
Tables 1 through 10.
ii) A kick-off meeting between the manufacturer/fabricator and ABS-designated Surveyor(s) is to be
scheduled for the maintenance, repair or modification purposes prior to commencement of the
work in order to:
a) Confirm availability of approved drawings and documents for maintenance or repair of
equipment
b) Assess the need for ABS technical review of proposed repairs or modifications
c) Confirm and/or establish the main point of contacts (PoC) for the manufacturer and ABS
d) Review the project and/or manufacturer’s quality plans
e) Review test procedures
f) Review manufacturing specifications
g) Review project manufacturing and delivery schedules
h) Review and confirm project “hold-points”
i) Review sub-contractor lists and/or qualifications
The above list is not all inclusive and the kick off meeting is not limited to the above.

Section 2 Surveys Onshore and Issuance of Maintenance Release Notes 8-2
iii) Surveyors are to attend the facility/plant for the required function, load and/or pressure testing
carried out on the drilling system equipment prior to their release. Tests conducted are to follow
guidelines outlined in 3-2/Tables 1 through 10, as applicable.
iv) Upon completion of approved repairs/modifications, review of applicable documentation and
satisfactory completion of tests, a “Maintenance Release Note” (MRN) will be issued by the
attending Surveyor. See Appendix 6 for an example of the “Maintenance Release Note” (MRN).
v) All MRNs are to be maintained onboard the drilling unit as part of the Owner maintenance record
and for verification by the attending Surveyor during Classification surveys of the unit.

CHAPTER 8
SECTION 3
Survey of Drilling Systems
1 Annual Surveys
At each Annual Survey, the Surveyor is to verify the satisfactory condition of the applicable classed
drilling systems and equipment by visual examination and testing, as appropriate. As a minimum, the
following is to be carried out to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor:
i) Review of Owner maintenance system and relevant logs/records to confirm that:
a) A suitable maintenance program is in place and in use.
b) Periodical testing requirements have been carried out, as applicable.
c) Any repairs, replacements, reconditioning or renewals of applicable well control systems
and equipment, drilling support systems/equipment or support systems and equipment, as
defined in the scope of this Guide, were carried out according to the applicable codes and
standards and the requirements of this Guide.
ii) Review of ABS-issued MRNs and/or CoCs since initial or last Annual Survey, and examination of
this equipment to extent deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.
iii) Review of applicable lists of classed equipment and systems for approved changes made to the
drilling system equipment components and controls systems and examination and testing to the
extent deemed necessary by the attending Surveyor.
iv) Where applicable to the equipment and systems associated with the CDS class designation,
exposed surfaces of the derrick, ladders, working/service platforms, drilling hoisting systems,
lifting devices, burner booms, stabbing boards, racking boards/platforms and drilling equipment
foundations are to be examined and placed in satisfactory condition, as found necessary.
v) The inspection of the derrick and related structural members will include the following:
a) The general condition of the structure, especially bent, missing or abraded parts and lost
corrosion protection coatings.
b) Tightness of bolts and verification of maintenance records for periodic checking of bolt
torque in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
c) For in-service inspection, cracks are generally identified by visual examination, and the
interval of inspection may need to be appropriately determined specifically for galvanized
structures.

Section 3 Survey of Drilling Systems 8-3
vi) Where well control systems (WCS) are included in the CDS class of the unit, maintenance and
service records (including tracking of replacements) of threaded fasteners including closure bolts,
pressure controlling applications, pressure retaining bolts used on hydraulic connectors and bolts
potentially exposed to well bore fluids are to be verified. Records of installation and testing per
manufacturers recommended practice are to be available to the attending Surveyor. See 5-1/11 and
5-1/13.
vii) Condition of wire ropes and fittings.
viii) Examination of all mounting hardware and the structure of base-mounted winches and other
lifting devices.
ix) General external examination so far as accessible of the drilling systems, subsystems, equipment
and components as noted in the scope of Chapter 1, Section 2 of this Guide for structural or
mechanical damage, excess corrosion, or malfunctions, etc.
x) Protective covers, insulation, shrouds and protective guards around moving parts are to be
generally examined as far as practicable and found or placed in satisfactory condition.
xi) Derrick walkways and ladders, drill floor and drill system machinery spaces to be surveyed with
particular attention to fire and explosion hazards, continued compliance with the hazardous area
plan and confirmation that emergency escape routes are not blocked.
xii) External examination of pressure vessels and their appurtenances, including safety devices,
foundations, controls, relieving gear, piping systems, flexible lines/hydraulic hoses, insulation and
gauges.
xiii) Examination of safety shutdown devices with functional testing as deemed necessary by the
attending Surveyor.
xiv) General examination of electrical and instrumentation systems, including protective devices and
cable supports.
xv) For software controlled systems: Validation of satisfactory operating history and testing and
testing of software control systems is to be carried out to the satisfaction of the attending
Surveyor. Where software code and functionality has changed, the FMEA may be required to be
updated and submitted for ABS Technical approval.
xvi) External examination of mud and cement systems.
xvii) External examination of the BOP stack, to the extent as practical, inclusive of choke and kill
manifold, test log and maintenance records.
xviii) Review of NDE records for shear rams.
Blind shear ram blades and bodies with hardness properties in excess of 26 HRC require special
controls to avoid sulfide stress cracking (SSC). Compliance to NACE is achieved by management
of the environment as recommended in NACE 17025:2015 Section A.2.3.2.3 and additional
nondestructive evaluation. These controls are to be incorporated into the service manuals for the
equipment.
The Surveyor is to refer to the ABS issued blind shear ram design review letter for details on
whether the rams require special examination, and verify that the following items are completed
for rams of this type:
a) For rams that have been exposed to H2S, the attending Surveyor is to verify that the
inspection plan has been conducted during each between well period, and is to review
records of the examination.
b) For all affected blind shear rams, the attending Surveyor is to verify the manufacturer’s
annual inspection requirements have been completed (in accordance with API 53 and the
Surveyor is to review records of the examination.

c) When the NDE is conducted on through hardened rams, special attention is to be paid to
any areas with stress concentrations.
xix) Testing of the BOP equipment in accordance with API 53, and/or as required by local regulations:
a) Pressure and functional testing
b) Control system testing
xx) Review BOP inspections and maintenance records in accordance with Section 6 (surface BOPs)
and/or Section 7 (subsea BOPs) of API 53.
xxi) Collision avoidance systems are to be function tested.
xxii) Marine Riser Maintenance Program:
When the riser system is part of the CDS class (full CDS or CDS (WCS)), an annual confirmation
of the riser maintenance program is to be carried out by the attending Surveyor. This survey is to
be carried out simultaneously with each Annual Survey of the classed drilling systems. The
purpose of this survey is to verify that the program is being correctly operated and that the riser is
maintained and has been functioning satisfactorily since the previous survey. The survey is to at
least include the following:
a) A general examination of the available riser joints.

b) The Surveyor is to review the Owner’s annual report, and the required onboard
documentation required by the Riser Operations Manual. See 2-3/13.7.
c) The performance and maintenance records are to be examined to verify that the riser has
functioned satisfactorily since the previous survey or action has been taken in response to
riser operating parameters which are outside acceptable tolerances and the overhaul
intervals have been maintained.
d) Written details of breakdowns or malfunctions of the equipment is to be made available.
e) At the discretion of the Surveyor, riser sections may be subject to a close visual
examination including removal of floatation where required and nondestructive testing of
suspect areas.
3 Special Periodical Surveys

The Special Periodical Survey is to include all items listed under the Annual Survey, and, in addition, the
following is to be carried out to the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor:
i) Review of Owner maintenance records to review and confirm that:
a) Periodical testing requirements have been carried out, as applicable.
b) Any repairs, replacements, reconditioning or renewals of well control systems/equipment,
drilling support systems/equipment or support systems and equipment, as defined in the
scope of this Guide, were carried out according to the applicable codes and standards and
the requirements of this Guide.
ii) Internal examination and/or thickness gauging of pressure vessels and pressure-retaining
components, testing of relief valves and pressure piping systems, as considered necessary by the
Surveyor.
iii) Hydrostatic testing of pressure vessels and other pressure-retaining components related to the
drilling system to their maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) as documented by the
manufacturer’s operation manual or ABS approved plans.
iv) Hydrostatic testing of drilling system piping systems and flexible lines/hydraulic hoses to their
MAWP.

v) Verification of insulation resistance testing of motors that are part of the drilling system.
vi) Examination of rotating drilling machinery to verify suitable operation and free from excessive
vibration.
vii) The blowout preventer is to be subjected to a complete performance test and pressure-tested to its
MAWP.
viii) Examination of mud and cement pump fluid ends. System testing to be carried to the satisfaction
of the attending Surveyor.
ix) Functional testing of derrick gear, drilling hoisting systems and derrick floor lifting devices with
available load.
x) Close visual examination of the condition of welded joints on the derrick and associated structure,
including nondestructive testing (including thickness gauging if required) of any suspect areas
noted by the attending Surveyor.
xi) Internal Examination of the critical equipment associated with the well control system and their
maintenance records. Continued compliance with the manufacturer’s specifications is to be
confirmed.
xii) Satisfactory functioning of the emergency power equipment.
xiii) Retesting of lifting appliances dedicated to drilling in accordance with the load testing
requirements of the applicable design codes and standards, such as API 2C, ABS Lifting
Appliance Guide, etc.
5 Well Control Event Survey

Surveyor’s attendance is required if the blind-shear or casing shear ram was activated in a well control
situation. The Owner is to inform ABS of the well control event and plans for servicing the BOP. Surveyor
is to be in attendance for the Owner inspection and testing of the BOP.

CHAPTER 8
SECTION 4
Alternatives to Periodical Survey
1 General
Alternative survey programs, as outlined below, can be implemented to achieve and complete the survey
objectives as specified in Chapter 8, Section 3.
The alternative survey program is to be submitted by the Owner to ABS for review and approval.
3 Survey Based on Preventative Maintenance Techniques

A properly conducted preventative maintenance/condition-monitoring plan may be credited as satisfying
the requirements of Special Survey.
This plan must be in accordance with Appendix 7-2-4, “Preventive Maintenance Program” of the ABS
MOU Rules.
5 Surveys Using Risk-based Techniques

A properly conducted Risk-based Inspection plan or Reliability-centered Maintenance Plan may be
credited as satisfying requirements of Special Survey.
The plan must be in accordance with the ABS Guide for Surveys Using Risk-based Inspection for the
Offshore Industry or the ABS Guide for Surveys Based on Reliability-Centered Maintenance.
Components comprising the BOP are not eligible to be enrolled in a Risk-based PM plan for survey
crediting purposes. 166

CHAPTER 8
SECTION 5
Modifications, Damage and Repairs
1 General
When it is intended to perform any modifications to machinery, piping, equipment, etc., which may affect
Classification, the details of such modifications are to be submitted for approval and the work is to be
carried out to the satisfaction of the Surveyor.
i) When a system certified with ABS has suffered any damage to machinery, piping or equipment,
etc., which may affect Classification, ABS is to be notified and the damage examined by a
Surveyor.
ii) Details of intended repairs are to be submitted to the Surveyor and the work is to be carried out to
the satisfaction of the attending Surveyor. Repair details may be required to be submitted for
technical review at the discretion of the Surveyor.
iii) Where component parts suffer a premature or unexpected failure, and are subsequently repaired or
replaced without Surveyor attendance, details of the failure, including the damaged parts where
practicable, are to be retained onboard for examination by the Surveyor during the next scheduled
survey/visit.
iv) Alternatively, the component(s) may be taken ashore for examination and testing, as required. If
failures are deemed to be a result of inadequate or inappropriate maintenance, the onboard
maintenance plan is to be amended and the changes noted for verification by the Surveyor.

APPENDIX 1
Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification of Drilling
Systems
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification
of Drilling Systems.......................................................................... 196

APPENDIX 1
Systems
SECTION 1
Systems
The latest edition of the following codes and standards are applicable and referenced in this Guide.
ABS is prepared to consider other appropriate alternative methods and recognized codes and standards.
When alternate codes and/or standards are proposed, comparative analyses are to be provided to
demonstrate equivalent level of safety to the recognized standards as listed in this Guide and are to be
performed in accordance with Chapter 1, Section 5 of this Guide.
API
2INT-MET Hurricane Conditions in the Gulf of Mexico
16J Comparison of Marine Drilling Riser Analysis
2MET Deviation of Metocean Design and Operating Conditions
2A-WSD Planning, Designing and Constructing Fixed Offshore Platforms – Working Stress Design
2C Offshore Pedestal Mounted Cranes
2X Ultrasonic and Magnetic Examination of Offshore Structural Fabrication and Guidelines for
Qualification of Technicians
2RD Dynamic Riser for Floating Production systems
4F Drilling and Well Servicing Structures
5D Drill Pipe
6A Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment
6AV1 Verification Test of Wellhead Surface Safety Valves and Underwater Safety Valves for Offshore Service
6AF1 Technical Report on Temperature Derating on API Flanges under Combination of Loading
6AF2 Technical Report on Capabilities of API Integral Flanges Under Combination of Loading – Phase II
7-1 Rotary Drill Stem Elements
7F Oil-Field Chain and Sprockets
7K Drilling and Well Servicing Equipment

Appendix 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification of Drilling Systems
Section 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification of Drilling Systems A1-1
8B Internal Combustion Reciprocating Engines for Oil Field Service
8C Drilling and Production Hoisting Equipment (PSL 1 and PSL 2)
9A Wire Rope
9B Application, Care, and Use of Wire Rope for Oil Field Service
12J Oil and Gas Separators
12K Indirect-type Oil-Field Heaters
13C Recommended Practice on Drilling Fluids Processing Systems Evaluation
14A Subsurface Safety Valve Equipment
14B Design, Installation, Operation and Redress of Subsea Safety Valve Systems RP 14C Analysis, Design,
Installation and Testing of Basic Surface Systems on Offshore Production Platforms
14C Recommended Practice for Analysis, Design, Installation, and Testing of Basic Safety Systems for
Offshore Production Platforms
14E Design and Installation of Offshore Production Platform Piping Systems
14F Design and Installation of Electrical Systems for Fixed and Floating Offshore Petroleum Facilities for
Unclassified and Class I, Division 1 and Division 2 Locations
14FZ Design and Installation of Electrical Systems for Fixed and Floating Offshore Petroleum Facilities for
Unclassified and Class I, Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2 Locations
14G Fire Prevention and Control on Fixed Open Type Offshore Production Platforms
14J Design and Hazards Analysis for Offshore Production Facilities
16A Drill Through Equipment
16C Choke and Kill Systems
16D Control Systems for Drilling Well Control Equipment and Control Systems for Diverter Equipment
16F Marine Drilling Riser Equipment
16Q Design, Selection, Operation and Maintenance of Marine Drilling Riser Systems
16R Marine Drilling Riser Couplings
16RCD Specification for Drill Through Equipment – Rotating Control Devices
17A Design and Operation of Subsea Production Systems – General Requirements and Recommendations
(ISO 13628-1)
17B Flexible Pipe
17D Subsea Wellhead and Christmas Tree Equipment (ISO 13628-4)
17E Subsea Production Control Umbilicals (ISO 13628-5)
17F Subsea Production Control Systems (ISO 13628-6)
17J Unbonded Flexible Pipe
17K Bonded Flexible Pipe
17G Design and Operation of Completion/Workover Riser Systems
17H Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) Interfaces on Subsea Production Systems (ISO 13628-8)
20E Alloy and Carbon Steel Bolting for Use in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries
20F Corrosion Resistant Bolting for Use in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries
53 Blowout Prevention Equipment Systems for Drilling Operations

59 Well Control Operations
64 Diverter Systems Equipments and Operations
92C Controlled Mud Level Managed Pressure Drilling Operations
92M Managed Pressure Drilling Operations with Surface Back-pressure
92P Managed Pressure Drilling Operations – Pressurized Mud Cap Drilling with a Subsea Blowout
Preventer
92S Managed Pressure Drilling Operations – Surface Back-pressure with a Subsea Blowout Preventer
92U Managed Pressure Drilling Operations – Underbalanced Drilling Operations
500 Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class I,
Division 1 and Division 2
505 Classification of Locations for Electrical Installations at Petroleum Facilities Classified as Class I, Zone
0, Zone 1 and Zone 2
520 Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure-Relieving Systems in Refineries, Part I – Sizing and
Selection
521 Pressure Relieving and Depressuring Systems
610 Centrifugal Pumps for Petroleum, Petrochemical and Natural Gas Industries
2000 Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks
2003 Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning and Stray Contents
ASME
B31.3 Process Piping
Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code:
• Section V Nondestructive Examination
• Section VIII, Div. 1 Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
• Section VIII, Div. 2 Alternative Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels
• Section IX Qualification Standard for Welding and Brazing Procedures, Welders, Brazers, and Welding
and Brazing Operators
• Section X Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Pressure Vessels
ASNT
SNT-TC-1A Personnel Qualification and Certification of Nondestructive Testing
ASTM
A143 Standard Practice for Safeguarding Against Embrittlement of Hot-Dip Galvanized Structural Steel
Products and Procedure for Detecting Embrittlement
A153 Standard Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware
A384 Standard Practice for Safeguarding Against Warpage and Distortion During Hot-Dip Galvanizing of
Steel Assemblies
A385 Standard Practice for Providing High-Quality Zinc Coating (Hot-Dip)
A388 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Examination of Heavy Steel Forgings

A609 Standard Practice for Casting, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless Steel, Ultrasonic
Examination Thereof
A770 Standard Specification for Through-Thickness Tension Testing of Steel Plates for Special Applications
B849 Standard Specification for Pre-Treatments of Iron or Steel for Reducing Risk of Hydrogen
Embrittlement
B850 Standard Guide for Post-Coating Treatments of Steel for Reducing the Risk of Hydrogen Embrittlement
D1418 Standard Practice for Rubber and Rubber Latices-Nomenclature
E8 Standard Test Methods for Tension Testing of Metallic Materials
E10 Standard Test Methods for Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials
E18 Standard Test Methods for Rockwell Hardness and Rockwell Superficial Hardness of Metallic Materials
E92 Standard Test Method for Vickers Hardness of Metallic Materials
E94 Standard Guide for Radiographic Testing
E110 The Standard Test Method for Rockwell and Brinell Hardness of Metallic Materials by Portable
Hardness Testers
E165 Standard Practice for Liquid Penetrant Inspection
E186 Standard Reference Radiographs for Heavy Walled (2 to 4.5 in.) (51 to 114 mm) Steel Castings
E280 Standard Reference Radiographs for (4.5 to 12 in.) (114 to 305 mm) Steel Castings
E428 Standard Practice for Fabrication and Control of Steel Reference Blocks Used in Ultrasonic Inspection
E446 Standard Reference Radiographs for Steel Castings up to 2 in. in Thickness
E587 Standard Practice for Ultrasonic Angle-Beam Contact Testing
E609 Standard Practice for Casting, Carbon, Low-Alloy, and Martensitic Stainless Steel, Ultrasonic
Examination Thereof
E709 Standard Recommended Practice for Magnetic Particle Examination
AWS
D1.1 Structural Welding Code – Steel
BCSA
Publication No. Galvanizing Structural Steelwork – An Approach to the Management of Liquid Metal Assisted Cracking
40/05
EN
473 / ISO 9712 Non-destructive testing – Qualifications and certification of NDT personnel – General principles
12385 Steel Wire Ropes. Safety. General Requirements
IEC
61508 Functional Safety of Electrical/Electronic/Programmable Electronic Safety-Related Systems, Part 1 - 6
IEEE

C37.06.1 Guide for High Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on Symmetrical Current Basis Designated “Definite
Purpose for Fast Transient Recovery Voltage Rise Times”
C37.20.6 4.76 kV to 38 kV Rated Ground and Test Devices Used in Enclosures
Std.45 Recommended Practice for Electrical Installations on Shipboard
Std.142 Recommended Practice for Grounding of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems
Std.242 Recommended Practice for Protection and Coordination of Industrial and Commercial Power Systems
ISO
9712 Non-destructive testing – Qualifications and certification of NDT personnel – General principles
19901-1 Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries – Specific requirements for offshore structures – Part 1: Metocean
design and operating considerations-First Edition
NACE
MR 0175/ISO Materials for use in H2S containing environment in oil and gas production
15156
NFPA
37 Standard for the Installation and Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines
70 National Electrical Code
496 Standard for Purged and Pressurized Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
SAE
J517 Hydraulic Hoses

APPENDIX 2
Typical Example of Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Typical Example of Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance
(MAC)................................................................................................ 202

APPENDIX 2
Typical Example of Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)
SECTION 1
Typical Example of Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)
The following is an example of Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance (MAC), issued in accordance with
3-2/3.3 and 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9.
The contents of the MAC are to be specific to the manufacturer’s equipment or components and the
respective design and manufacturing parameters.

Appendix 2 Typical Example of Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance (MAC)
Section 1 Typical Example of Manufacturer’s Affidavit of Compliance (MAC) A2-1

APPENDIX 3
Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC)
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC) ..........205

APPENDIX 3
SECTION 1
The following is an example of ABS Independent Review Certificate (IRC), issued in accordance with
3-2/7.3 and 7-3/Table 3.
The contents of the IRC and associated CoC are to be specific to the equipment and its respective design
parameters and approval.

Appendix 3 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC)
Section 1 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC) A3-1

Appendix 3 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC)
Section 1 Typical Example of Independent Review Certificate (IRC) A3-1

APPENDIX 4
Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)..................................209

APPENDIX 4
SECTION 1
The following is an example of ABS Certificate of Conformity (CoC), issued in accordance with 3-2/7.3
and 3-2/Table 3.
The contents of the IRC and associated CoC are to be specific to the equipment and its respective design
parameters and approval.

Appendix 4 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
Section 1 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC) A4-1

APPENDIX 5
Example of Survey Report (SR)
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Example of Survey Report (SR) .....................................................212

APPENDIX 5
SECTION 1
The following is an example of ABS Survey Report (AB Report Vendor), issued in accordance with
3-2/7.1 and 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9.
The contents of the Survey Report are to be specific to the equipment and its respective design parameters
and approval.

Appendix 5 Example of Survey Report (SR)
Section 1 Example of Survey Report (SR) A5-1

APPENDIX 6
Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN)
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN).................................. 215

APPENDIX 6
SECTION 1

Appendix 6 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN)
Section 1 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN) A6-1

APPENDIX 7
Design Plans and Data - Submittal Requirements
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Design Plans and Data.................................................................... 218
1 General Arrangement for Drilling System................................... 218
3 Well Control Systems and Equipment........................................ 219
3.1 Blowout Preventer Systems and Equipment................. 219
3.3 Lower Marine Riser Package.........................................221
3.5 Choke and Kill Systems and Equipment........................221
3.7 Diverter Equipment........................................................ 223
3.9 Auxiliary Well Control Equipment.................................. 223
5 Marine Drilling Riser Systems Components............................... 223
7 Conductor Tensioning System/Unit.............................................224
9 Drill String Compensation Systems............................................ 225
11 Bulk Storage, Transfer, Conditioning, and Circulation Systems. 225
13 Hoisting, Lifting, Tubular Handling Systems............................... 226
13.1 Derrick Structure............................................................227
13.3 Cranes and Lifting Appliances....................................... 228
13.5 Tubulars Handling..........................................................229
13.7 Other Load-bearing Equipment..................................... 230
15 Mechanical Load-Bearing Equipment.........................................230
17 Burner/Flare Booms (Permanently Fitted).................................. 230
19 Electrical Systems and Equipment............................................. 232
21 Control Systems......................................................................... 232
23 Pressure-Retaining Equipment...................................................233
25 Piping Systems and Piping Components....................................233
27 Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses...................................................234
SECTION 2 Manufacturing Specifications.........................................................235

APPENDIX 7
SECTION 1
Design Plans and Data
The following paragraphs describe documentation and ABS approval requirements for Classing of drilling
systems, subsystems, equipment, and/or components.
i) Chapter 3, Section 2 provides the general process for ABS approval of a drilling system. In
addition, 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 identify the typical drilling systems, subsystems, equipment
and/or components that require approval for ABS Classification of the drilling system.
ii) The shipyard and manufacturer’s plans and data, as specified in this Appendix, are generally to be
submitted electronically to ABS. However, hard copies will also be accepted.
iii) All plan submissions originating from shipyards, manufacturers and subcontractors are understood
to be made with the knowledge of the main contracting party. Coordination of equipment suppliers
and systems integrators is the responsibility of the main contracting party for the CDS notation. In
the case of a modification to an existing classed CDS system, the rig Owner is considered the
main contracting party.
1 General Arrangement for Drilling System

General arrangement plans are to provide the following information, as applicable:
i) General arrangement of the installation/facility where the drilling system and its machinery are
installed.
ii) Equipment layout, detailed arrangements, footprint and elevation drawings showing.
a) Locations of all machinery, equipment, and structures for drilling operations
b) Equipment operating zones showing operational interferences with other equipment,
structures and personnel work areas.
c) Piping systems associated with the drilling systems, and support systems
d) Locations of all control panels/stations for drilling systems, including all drilling support
systems
e) Locations of the fire and gas monitoring and fire-fighting control locations
f) Escape and egress routes, including their protections, and muster stations
g) The locations of openings (air intake, exhaust, windows, doors, etc.) for all closed spaces
h) Ventilation arrangements

Appendix 7 Design Plans and Data - Submittal Requirements
Section 1 Design Plans and Data A7-1
iii) HAZOP and HAZID study reports per Chapter 2.

iv) FMEA/FMECA or similar analysis, and the associated Validation testing program per Chapter 2.
v) Classified areas (hazardous areas) drawings and/or details identifying nonhazardous areas and
hazardous areas in accordance with the ABS MOU Rules, API 500 or API 505.
vi) Locations of potential hydrocarbon release from drilling operations.
3 Well Control Systems and Equipment

Typical well control systems and equipment are identified as follows:
● Blowout preventer (BOP) equipment
● Lower marine riser package (LMRP) for subsea well control
● Choke and kill equipment
● Marine drilling riser systems (see 2-3/13)
● Diverter equipment
● Auxiliary well control equipment
The following are to be submitted for the well control systems and equipment:
i) General arrangement of well control systems, subsystems, equipment and components
ii) FMEA/FMECA or similar analysis for the well control systems and subsystems (see 2-2/3.5 and
3-2/Tables 3, 5, 7 and 9)
3.1 Blowout Preventer Systems and Equipment

Submit the following documentation for the well control systems, BOP systems and/or well control
equipment, as applicable:
i) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the well control systems and equipment for surface and subsurface BOPs
b) Design parameters: pressure rating, temperature rating (min/max)
c) P&IDs and schematic diagrams
d) Shutdown logic
e) Details on hierarchy of control: primary, secondary, emergency, etc.
f) Equipment technical specifications and data sheet
g) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
ii) All control panel arrangements for BOP control systems
iii) Design and manufacturing details for BOP stack equipment to include preventers, drill spools,
wellhead connectors, clamps, spacer spools, adapter spools, etc.:
a) Design parameters: pressure rating (RWP/MAWP, or design pressure), temperature rating
(min/max), loads, maximum water depth, service conditions, etc.
b) Dimensional detailed drawings and fabrication details
c) Material specifications and material properties
d) Design analysis for pressure-retaining equipment
e) Individual BOP (annular and ram) details. This is to include manufacturer documentation
to specify and to attest BOP minimum and maximum capability with regard to:

● Drill pipe size

● Tool joints
● Casing
● Wire line, or
● Combination of the above
f) Data and documentation to confirm the shear rams capability of shearing the various
tubulars (sizes, grades, strengths, etc.) under the specified design conditions
g) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
h) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
iv) BOP stack assembly:
a) BOP stack configuration with individual annular and ram preventer details. This is to
include the manufacturer’s documentation to specify and to attest BOP stack minimum
and maximum capability with regard to:
● Drill pipe size
● Tool joints
● Casing
● Wire line, or
● Combination of the above
b) BOP stack assembly drawings for BOP systems showing:
● Stack configuration showing all equipment
● Structural frame details
● Lift points/attachments
● Arrangements showing accumulators, pods, valves, piping, connectors, jumper lines,
etc.
c) Design details and structural analysis for BOP structural frame and lifting attachments
d) Material specifications and material properties
e) Manufacturing specifications (See Appendix 7, Section 2)
v) Control system details:
a) Control panel and control equipment arrangements, showing locations on drilling unit
b) See “Control Systems” listed below
vi) Pressure relief system: arrangements, size, materials, back pressure and capacity calculations, as
applicable
vii) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
a) See “Electrical Systems and Equipment” listed below
viii) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:
a) See “Pressure-Retaining Equipment” listed below
ix) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
a) See “Piping Systems and Piping Components” listed below

x) Design details for flexible lines and hydraulic hoses:

a) See “Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses” listed below
xi) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
xii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
3.3 Lower Marine Riser Package

i) Design basis, including, as applicable:
a) Descriptions of the lower marine riser package system
b) Equipment technical specifications and data sheets
c) Maximum design load condition
d) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
e) Design analysis methodology for the lower marine riser package, including computer
modeling and computer program used
f) Design analysis methodology of lower marine riser package, including loading
parameters from global marine drilling riser analysis, computer modeling, and computer
program used
ii) Design analysis of lower marine riser package mechanical-load bearing components and pressure-
retaining equipment, as applicable.
iii) LMRP components and systems are typically integrated into the BOP system and equipment.
Applicable submittal requirements for the following items are listed below:
a) Equipment, component
b) Control system
c) Electrical systems
d) Pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders
e) Piping, valves, and fittings
f) Flexible lines and hydraulic hoses
iv) Subsea control pods details, drawings and arrangements inclusive of component descriptions
v) LMRP structural frame
vi) Material specifications, including material properties
vii) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
viii) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
ix) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
3.5 Choke and Kill Systems and Equipment

Typical choke and kill systems and equipment are identified as follows, as applicable:
● Choke and kill manifold and buffer tanks

● Chokes
● Flexible choke and kill lines
● Drape hoses
● Jumper hoses, mud boost

● Hydraulic hoses
● Rigid choke and kill lines
● Swivel joints
● Union connections
● Drilling choke controls
● Valves: check, flow, gate
● Crosses and tees
● Elbows and targeted flanges
● Kill unit
● Control system
● Actuators: valves, drilling choke, or production choke
i) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the choke and kill systems and equipment and kill unit, including design
parameters, pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max.)
b) P&IDs and schematic diagrams
c) Equipment arrangement details
d) Equipment technical specifications and data sheet
e) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
ii) Pressure relief equipment rating/capacity
iii) Details of prime movers, such as diesel engines, motors, and generators, as applicable
iv) Design details for pumps, including:
a) Power rating and capacity
b) Temperature rating
v) Design details for mechanical load-bearing components:
a) See “Mechanical Load-Bearing Components” listed below
vi) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
vii) Control system details:
a) See “Control Systems” listed below
viii) Design details for manifolds, pressure vessels, and tanks:
ix) Design details for rigid piping, valves, and fittings:
x) Design details for flexible lines:
xi) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
xii) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
xiii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance

3.7 Diverter Equipment

i) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the diverter system and equipment, including design parameters, pressure
rating, temperature rating (min/max)
b) P&IDs and schematic diagrams
c) Equipment technical specifications and data sheet
d) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
ii) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
iii) Control system details:
iv) Design details for manifolds:
v) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
vi) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
vii) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
viii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
3.9 Auxiliary Well Control Equipment

Typical auxiliary well control equipment includes kelly valves, drill pipe safety valves, IBOP, drill string
float valves, etc.
i) Design details for valves, and fittings
ii) Manufacturing specifications, as applicable
iii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
5 Marine Drilling Riser Systems Components

Typical marine drilling riser subsystem components include the following:
● Riser tensioning system and equipment
● Riser recoil system
● Riser joints
● Riser couplings (connectors): mechanical, hydraulic, etc.
● Telescopic joints
● Pup joints
● Buoyancy devices
● Ball and flex joints
● Riser running equipment
● Special equipment, including fill-up valves, mud boost system, drag reducing devices

Submit the following documentation for the marine drilling riser system and/or its components, as
applicable:
i) Design basis, including, as applicable:
a) Descriptions of the marine drilling riser system and its components (telescopic joint (slip
joint), flexible joint, connectors, etc.)
c) Equipment design capacities and suggested operation limits including water depth, net
pressure, equivalent tension per API 16F
ii) Riser and its components fabrication drawings
iii) Material specifications, including material properties
iv) Design validation test data, as required by the design code
v) Design details for mechanical load-bearing components:
vi) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
vii) Design details for control systems:
viii) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:
ix) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
x) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
7 Conductor Tensioning System/Unit

Submit the following documentation for the conductor tensioning system/unit and its equipment and
components, as applicable:
i) Schematics and P&IDs
ii) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the conductor tensioning system and associated equipment and
components
b) Design parameters, pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max)
c) Load capacity
d) Equipment technical specifications and data sheets
e) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
iii) Prototype test data, as required by the design code, as applicable
iv) Design details for mechanical load-bearing components:
v) Design details electrical systems and equipment:
vi) Design details for control systems:
vii) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:
viii) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:


ix) Design details for flexible lines:
x) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
xi) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
9 Drill String Compensation Systems

The drill string compensation system and equipment can be categorized as follows:
● Active heave compensation (AHC)
● Passive heave compensation (PHC)
Submit the following documentation for the drill string compensation system and associated equipment, as
applicable:
i) Schematics and P&IDs
ii) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the drill string compensation systems and associated equipment, inclusive
of fast and dead line compensation, as applicable
b) Design parameters, pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max)
c) Load capacity
e) Design details of locking mechanism, mechanical and/or hydraulic
f) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
iii) Prototype test data, as required by the design code
iv) Design details for mechanical load-bearing components:
v) Design details for electrical systems and equipment:
vi) Design details for control systems:
vii) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:
viii) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
ix) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
x) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
11 Bulk Storage, Transfer, Conditioning, and Circulation Systems

The bulk storage, circulation and transfer system equipment can be categorized as follows:
● Bulk storage and transfer equipment

● Cementing system and equipment

● Mud return system and equipment
● Mud conditioning equipment
● Well circulation system and equipment
● Mud-gas separator (poor boy),
● Degasser
Submit the following documentation for the bulk storage, circulation and transfer systems, as applicable:
i) P&IDs and schematic diagrams
ii) Design basis:
a) Descriptions of the bulk storage, circulation and transfer systems, and all associated
equipment (e.g., mud-gas separator, degasser, desilter, desanders, shale shakers, agitators,
etc.)
b) Design parameters, pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max) and
flow simulation
c) Pressure relief philosophy
e) Design references, codes, and standards
iii) Pressure relief equipment rating/capacity
iv) Details of prime movers, such as diesel engines, motors, and generators, as applicable
v) Design details for pumps, including:
a) Pressure rating, power rating and capacity
b) Temperature rating
vi) Design details for mechanical load-bearing components:
vii) Design details for electrical systems and equipment:
viii) Design details for control systems:
ix) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:
x) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
xi) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
xii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
13 Hoisting, Lifting, Tubular Handling Systems

Submit the following documentation for the hoisting, lifting, and tubular (riser, pipe) handling systems, as
applicable:

13.1 Derrick Structure

i) Design basis for the derrick structure, including:
a) Descriptions of the derrick structure and associated components
b) Equipment technical specifications
c) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
d) Load cases and limit states for all design and operating conditions
e) Assumptions used in the design analysis of the derrick structure and associated
components
f) Design conditions, including:
● Environmental
● Operating
● Static
● Storm survival
● Waiting on weather
● Temperature, min/max
● Field transit
● Ocean transit
● Lifting, if applicable
● Supporting structure deflection
g) Combined load cases and limit states for all design and operating conditions
h) The center of rotation (floating condition) specified in terms of the vertical and horizontal
distances between the derrick base and the center of flotation of the vessel/unit
i) Design analysis methodology for the derrick structure and associated components, and
component analyses including computer modeling and computer program used
j) Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components and bolts
(if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
k) Corrosion control plans
l) Rigging arrangement
ii) Identification of the host vessel/unit for the derrick
iii) Descriptions of all computer programs, analysis methodologies and limits, and other calculation
procedures that will form the basis of the structural design and analysis
iv) Structural analysis report:
a) Design load development and computer input for all design conditions
b) Computer model geometry plots (group IDs, joint numbers, members and lengths, critical
unity checks)
c) Allowable stresses
d) Computer stress analysis
e) Computer output; support reactions, unity stress checks
f) Justifications for any stress exceeding the stated allowable stress
g) Derrick bolt design and torque procedures by manufacturer

h) Attachment locations for other equipment (e.g., drill string compensation, tubulars
handling, blowers, air reservoir, accumulator, tugger winches, ancillary equipment, etc.)
i) Supplemental calculations:
● Sheave shaft strength (including shafts for cluster, fastline, and deadline sheaves)
● Crown frame and Water table beams (or Top beams)
● Maximum allowable crown weight and CG to determine suitability for crown
mounted compensator
● Bolting designs for base plates and splice plates
● Strength of welded joints
● Platforms or sub-structure, as applicable
● Padeyes, as applicable
v) Structural drawings:
a) General arrangement drawings
b) Derrick assembly drawings
c) Crown block assembly drawings
d) Water table assembly drawings
e) Geometry layout drawing; showing overall dimensions of derrick and indicating the size
of each member
f) Detailed drawings of the main structural elements of the derrick, crown frame, and water
table beams, including:
● Details and sizes for main structural elements
● Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components and
bolts (if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
● Bolt connections and tightening procedures
● Welding details and other methods of connection
g) Base plate, anchor bolt plan and bolting procedures
h) Bolts sheet
vi) Manufacturing specifications (See Appendix 7, Section 2)
vii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
13.3 Cranes and Lifting Appliances

i) Design basis for the cranes (gantry or pedestal), including:
a) Descriptions of the crane structures and associated components
b) Equipment technical specifications
c) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
d) Load cases and limit states for all design and operating conditions or combination thereof:
● Dead, live and dynamic loads, including loads due to list and/or trim of the drilling
unit, as applicable
● Environmental loads including the effects of wind, sea state, snow and ice
ii) General arrangement, assembly plans and description of operating procedures and design service
temperature

iii) Details of the principal structural parts and crane supporting structure
iv) Stress diagram, stress analysis and other supporting calculations, suitably referenced. Where
computer analysis is used for the determination of scantlings, details of the programs describing
input and output data and procedures are to be included together with the basic design criteria.
v) Expected duty cycle in frequency of use and percentage of load
vi) Wire rope specifications
vii) Material specifications including material properties
viii) Welding details and procedures and a plan indicating extent and locations of nondestructive
inspection of welds for crane structure and foundation
ix) Crane capacity rating chart
x) Design details for electrical systems and equipment:
xi) Design details for control systems:
xii) Manufacturing specifications (see Appendix 7, Section 2)
xiii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
13.5 Tubulars Handling

i) Design basis for the tubulars handling system:
a) Description of system
c) Design references, codes, or standards
d) Design conditions:
● Environmental
● Operating
● Static
● Survival
e) Load and temperature rating
f) Rotating equipment power rating
ii) General arrangement drawings showing locations of all equipment
iii) Assembly and equipment drawings
iv) Structural analysis report
v) Dimensional detailed drawings
vi) Prototype test data, if required by the design code
viii) Design details for control systems:
a) See “Control System” listed below, as applicable

ix) Design details for pressure vessels, accumulators, cylinders:

x) Design details for piping, valves, and fittings:
xi) Manufacturing specifications (See Appendix 7, Section 2)
xii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
13.7 Other Load-bearing Equipment

i) Load-bearing equipment, and associated support structural may include, but is not limited to, BOP
handling crane, BOP transporter/skidder, drawworks, crown block, traveling block, top drive,
hook and rotary swivel, power swivel, pipe, rackers/manipulator systems, stabbing board, racking
platforms, man-riding elevators, winches, wire lines/ropes, cranes, and other lifting devices.
ii) Design details for mechanical load-bearing equipment:
a) See “Mechanical Load-Bearing Equipment” listed below
iii) Design details for electrical systems and equipment:
iv) Design details for control systems, as applicable:
v) Manufacturing specifications, as applicable
vi) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
15 Mechanical Load-Bearing Equipment

The following documentation for mechanical load-bearing components are to be submitted for ABS
review, as applicable.
See 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9, as applicable, for ABS approval requirements.
i) Design specifications, including design codes, standards, and references

ii) Design parameters: loads, temperature, environmental conditions, etc.
iii) Design analysis and/or calculations, as applicable
iv) Dimensional drawings and fabrication details
v) Material specifications and material properties
vi) Prototype test data, if required by the design code
viii) Design details for control systems, as applicable:
ix) Manufacturing specifications, as applicable
x) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
17 Burner/Flare Booms (Permanently Fitted)

Submit the following documentation for the burner/flare boom fitted as part of the well control system:

i) Design basis for the burner/flare boom, including:

a) Descriptions of the burner flare boom and associated components
b) Equipment list
c) Equipment technical specifications and data sheets
d) Load cases and limit states for all design and operating conditions
e) Assumptions used in the design analysis of the burner flare boom structure and associated
components
f) Design conditions, including:
● Environmental
● Operating
● Survival
g) Combined load cases and limit states for all design and operating conditions
h) Plans showing intended location of the boom on the installation
i) Design references, codes, standards, or guidelines
j) Design analysis methodology for the burner flare boom structure and associated
components, and component analyses including computer modeling and computer
program used
k) Design temperature (maximum, minimum)
l) Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components and bolts
(if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
ii) Descriptions of all computer programs, analysis methodologies and limits, and other calculation
procedures that will form the basis of the structural design and analysis
iii) Structural analysis report:
a) Design load development and computer input for all design conditions
b) Computer model geometry plots (group IDs, joint numbers, members and lengths, critical
unity checks)
c) Allowable stresses
d) Computer stress analysis
e) Computer output: support reactions, unity stress checks
f) Justifications for any stress exceeding the stated allowable stress, as applicable
iv) Structural drawings:
a) General arrangement drawings
b) Burner Flare Boom assembly drawings
c) Geometry layout drawing; showing overall dimensions of burner flare boom and
indicating the size of each member
d) Detail drawings of the main structural elements of the burner flare boom, including:
● Details and sizes for main structural elements

● Material specifications and material properties for all load-bearing components and
bolts (if bolted design), including CVN testing requirements, as applicable
● Bolt connections and tightening procedures
● Welding details and other methods of connection
e) Base plate and anchor bolt plan
f) Bolts sheet
19 Electrical Systems and Equipment

Design plans and data are to be submitted for electrical systems and equipment in accordance with 4-3-1/5,
4-3-2/1, 4-3-3/1 and 4-3-4/1 of the ABS MOU Rules. See 2-7/7 of this Guide.
21 Control Systems
The following control system plans and data are to be submitted for design review, as applicable:
i) Arrangement plans showing location of units controlled, instrumentation and control devices
ii) Design basis and specifications for control and instrumentation equipment
iii) Set points for control system components
iv) Control system operating and maintenance manuals
v) Control system details:
a) Details on hierarchy of controls: primary, secondary, emergency, etc., as applicable
b) Details and description of interconnections between control systems
c) Primary power source and emergency power source details, as applicable
d) Volumetric capacity calculations for the accumulator systems, primary and secondary (as
applicable)
e) Hydraulic power unit (HPU) details/arrangements:
● Pump system details and arrangements
● Prime mover details
● Reservoir capacity and arrangements
f) Hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical schematics
g) Pressure relief system: Arrangements, size, materials, back pressure and capacity
calculations, as applicable
h) Manufacturing specifications
i) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
vi) FMEA, FMECA or similar analysis for control systems as defined in Chapter 2 for system,
subsystem, and equipment
vii) Documentation in accordance with the recognized industry standard is to be submitted for review
to justify the safety integrity levels, when applicable
viii) Calculations for control systems demonstrating the system’s ability to react adequately to
anticipated occurrences, including transients
ix) Arrangements and details of control consoles/panels, including front views, installation
arrangements together with schematic plans and logic description for all power, control and
monitoring systems, including their functions

x) Type and size of all electrical cables and wiring associated with the control systems, including
voltage rating, service voltage and currents, together with overload and short-circuit protection
xi) Schematic plans and logic description of hydraulic and pneumatic control systems together with
all interconnections, piping sizes and materials, including working pressures and relief-valve
settings
xii) Description of all alarm and emergency tripping arrangements and functional sketches or
description of all special valves, actuators, sensors and relays
xiii) Shutdown logic and/or shutdown cause and effect charts
xiv) Hydrocarbon and sour gas detection system plans and data, including detectors, piping, set points,
type of detectors, and location of alarm panels, and recalibration program for gas detectors
23 Pressure-Retaining Equipment
The following documentation for pressure-retaining equipment is to be submitted for ABS review and
approval, as applicable:
i) Design specifications, including design codes, standards, and references
ii) Design parameters: pressure rating (internal/external), temperature rating (min/max), loads, etc.
iii) Design analysis and/or calculations, as applicable
iv) Dimensional drawings and fabrication details
v) Material specifications and material properties
vi) Details for manufacturing specifications
vii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance, as applicable
See 3-2/Table 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9, as applicable, for ABS approval requirements.
25 Piping Systems and Piping Components

Design documentation is to be submitted for review and is to include the following information, as
applicable:
i) Piping Systems:
a) P&IDs for piping systems associated with drilling systems or subsystems
b) Piping specifications, including material specifications
c) Design parameters: pressure, temperature rating (min/max)
d) Pipe stress and flexibility analyses, including design verification of erosional allowance
due to fluid velocity
ii) Piping components are considered, but not limited to, pipes, valves, hoses, fittings, flanges, bolts,
etc. Piping component design specifications to include the following information in accordance
with piping standard rating, as applicable:
a) Technical specifications
b) Design pressure (internal/external) and/or pressure rating
c) Design temperature (min/max)
d) Fluid medium (specifically note if piping standard rating is for sour service)
e) Design code and standards
f) Corrosion/erosion allowances

g) Wall thickness for each line size

h) Material specifications including material properties
i) Details for manufacturing specifications
j) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance
See 3-2/Tables 1, 3, 5, 7 and 9, as applicable, for ABS approval requirements.
27 Flexible Lines/Hydraulic Hoses

Flexible lines and hydraulic hoses documentation is to include, as applicable:
i) Pressure (internal/external) and temperature (min/max) ratings
ii) Construction materials details/material specifications
iii) Design analysis
iv) Prototype testing procedures and data, as required by design code
v) End connections and termination details, as applicable:
a) Stress analysis
b) Material specifications
c) Prototype testing procedures and data
vi) Manufacturing specifications
vii) Manufacturer’s affidavit of compliance

APPENDIX 7
SECTION 2
Manufacturing Specifications
Manufacturing specifications and test procedures are required for manufacturing and testing of CDS
systems and equipment as required by this Guide. Manufacturing specifications are to be submitted to the
ABS technical office in association with the design review if required per Chapter 5, Section 1. Test
procedures are to include procedures for design validation testing per the design specification and the
testing to be carried out both during and at completion of manufacturing and for installation/
commissioning on board, where applicable. All testing will be required to be completed prior to issuance
of the CDS Classification. Test procedures requiring submittal include, but are not limited to, the following
documentation:
i) Quality plans and specifications
ii) Prototype and production testing, as required by the design codes or manufacturer specifications
iii) Hydrostatic pressure test
iv) Load testing
v) Post-test NDE
vi) Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs)
vii) Factory Integration Tests (FITs)
viii) System Integration Tests (SITs)
ix) Commissioning Procedures
x) FMEA Validation test Procedures
xi) Specification sheets and MACs for sub vendor/externally sourced or purchased assemblies/
subassemblies/parts within the operational load path, forming part of the control system, or
otherwise subject to design review and/or Survey requirements
xii) Any additional special procedures, inspection and testing plans, or other documentation pertaining
to the manufacturing and testing of the systems and equipment, as applicable.
xiii) Any additional test procedures as identified during the design review

APPENDIX 8
Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment
CONTENTS
SECTION 1 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment....................... 237
1 Purpose...................................................................................... 237
2 Scope..........................................................................................237
3 Design Review............................................................................238
4 Required Documentation............................................................ 238
4.1 General.......................................................................... 238
4.2 Test Plans and Data.......................................................238
4.3 Manufacturing/Remanufacturing/Repair History............238
4.4 Others............................................................................ 239
5 Surveys.......................................................................................239

APPENDIX 8
Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment
SECTION 1
Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment (1 August 2018)
1 Purpose
The purpose of this Appendix is to provide general provisions for the certification of existing drill-through
equipment that is not currently ABS certified.
2 Scope
This Appendix applies to the following equipment:
i) BOP Stack assemblies

ii) Ram blowout preventers (BOPs)
iii) Ram blocks, operators, packers, and top seals
iv) Annular BOPs
v) Annular packing units
vi) Hydraulic wellbore connectors (wellhead, riser, or LMRP)
vii) Drilling spools and spacer spools
viii) Mandrels (for wellbore connectors)
ix) Adapters
x) Loose connections
xi) Clamps
xii) API 6A flanges
xiii) Other end connections (OECs)
Note:
All items used in this Appendix are based on definitions contained within this Guide and common terminology used
throughout the industry, API 16A, API 16AR.

Appendix 8 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment
Section 1 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment A8-1
3 Design Review
Equipment meeting the full traceability requirements defined by API 16AR level RSL-3, will be
considered for certification. Requests for review of equipment meeting API 16 AR level RSL-2 will be
subject to special consideration.
Design documentation is to be submitted by the manufacturer or owner/operator and is to include the

reports, calculations, plans, manuals and other documentation necessary to verify the design is in
compliance with this Guide and in accordance with any applicable Coastal State Regulations for the area
of intended operation.
4 Required Documentation
The equipment manufacturer’s design information and historical documentation is to be submitted in
accordance with Appendix 7 of this Guide and is to include the following where applicable.
4.1 General
i) Name/type of equipment
ii) Part number
iii) Name of manufacturer and supplier
iv) Date(s) of manufacture, remanufacture and repair
v) Serial number of main assemblies and/or components
vi) Maintenance and Operating manuals
4.2 Test Plans and Data

i) FMEA/FMECA Validation test documentation
ii) Installation, and Commissioning plans and procedures
iii) The material traceability documentation is to include, but is not limited to:
1) Certified MTR
2) Chemical and mechanical properties for each heat
3) Heat treatment temperatures and time at temperature
4) Charpy impact values and temperatures
5) Hardness test readings (as applicable to materials meeting NACE MR0175)
6) Information on associated Elastomers
7) Bolts and nuts for fastening and/or connections used in pressure retaining, pressure
containing, pressure controlling applications (closure bolting per API Spec 6A, Spec 16A
and Spec 20E or 20F). See also 5-1/11 of this Guide.
8) MTRs for the following materials as defined in Chapter 5 of this Guide:
● Primary structure-load bearing components
● Primary mechanical-load bearing components
● Pressure retaining/containing/controlling equipment and piping components
● All piping, valves and fittings with an ANSI B16.5 Class 150 or greater
4.3 Manufacturing/Remanufacturing/Repair History

i) Detailed Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs), including associated test procedures for system,
subsystem, equipment or component, as outlined in 3-2/Tables 1 through 4, as applicable

Appendix 8 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment
Section 1 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment A8-1
ii) Surface treatment (electroplating, galvanizing, etc.) plans and specifications as applicable
iii) Disposition of any major manufacturing non-conformances and major engineering changes
iv) Quality plans and specifications (See 7/2.1)
v) Welding records with all approved qualifications
vi) Post weld heat treatment results
vii) NDT results
viii) Hardness test results (as applicable to materials meeting NACE MR0175)
ix) Dimensional check results
x) Hydrostatic pressure tests
xi) Low pressure tests and rated pressure tests
xii) Load tests
xiii) Electrical tests
xiv) Function tests
xv) Required tension results in accordance with installation procedures for closure, pressure
controlling and pressure retaining bolting as identified in 5-1/11 and 5-1/13. See also7-2/1 ii) j),
7-2/5 v), and 7-2/1 i).
4.4 Others
i) Manufacturer’s Certificate of Conformance (MCOC)
ii) Nameplate photograph or equivalent evidence of equipment pedigree
iii) Previous Certifying Authority Documentation
iv) Detailed Description of Critical Components, as defined by the OEM. See 5-1/5.
v) Additional requirements for BOP stack assembly control systems per A7-1/21
5 Surveys
Surveys are to be carried out by an ABS surveyor and are to include the following tests and inspections:
i) A full dismantling of the equipment covered by this Appendix to each individual component to the
extent associated with a major overhaul in accordance with manufacturers recommended practices
is to be conducted and witnessed by an ABS Surveyor in accordance with the applicable sections
of Chapter 7 of this guide.
ii) Internal examinations, including dimensional examinations as applicable are to be witnessed by an
ABS Surveyor.
iii) All weld repairs are to be witnessed by an ABS Surveyor.
iv) NDE is required to be carried out in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 6 of this Guide.
v) Hardness readings are to be taken at each weld in accordance with the provisions of this Guide ( as
applicable to materials meeting NACE MR 01-75).
vi) All sealing surfaces and ring grooves are to be dimensionally examined and non-destructively
tested by a suitable crack detection method in accordance with Chapter 6.
vii) Testing is to be carried out in accordance with 7-2/5 and 3-2/Table 4 of this Guide and is to be
witnessed by an ABS Surveyor.
viii) Shear rams and casing shear rams are to meet the requirements of 2-3/3.5 and 8-3/1 xviii).

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Guide for the

Classification of Drilling Systems

CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS

American Bureau of Shipping

© 2021 American Bureau of Shipping. All rights reserved.

We welcome your feedback. Comments or suggestions can be sent electronically by email to

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 ii

CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS

CHAPTER 2 Drilling Systems.................................................................................31

CHAPTER 3 Scope of Drilling System and Equipment Approval....................... 88

CHAPTER 4 Drilling System Piping.....................................................................128

CHAPTER 5 Materials for Drilling Systems and Equipment............................. 136

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 iii

CHAPTER 6 Welding and Nondestructive Examination.................................... 154

CHAPTER 7 Surveys at Vendor's Plant During Installation and

CHAPTER 8 Surveys After Construction and Maintenance of Class............... 183

APPENDIX 1 Typical Codes and Standards Related to ABS Classification

APPENDIX 2 Typical Example of Manufacturer's Affidavit of Compliance

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 iv

APPENDIX 4 Example of Certificate of Conformity (CoC)..................................208

APPENDIX 5 Example of Survey Report (SR)...................................................... 211

APPENDIX 6 Example Maintenance Release Note (MRN).................................. 214

APPENDIX 7 Design Plans and Data - Submittal Requirements........................217

APPENDIX 8 Certification of Existing Drill-Through Equipment....................... 236

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 v

SECTION 2 Classification Symbols and Notations...............................................4

FIGURE 1 Notations Application............................................................. 5

SECTION 3 Rules for Classification....................................................................... 6

SECTION 4 Plans and Design Data to be Submitted for Review.........................7

SECTION 6 Recognition of Risk Based Techniques to Justify Alternatives

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 1

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 2

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 3

1 ABS Class Notation

3 Sub Class Notations (1 October 2019)

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 4

5 Systems Not Built Under Survey

7 Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) Systems

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 5

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 6

Drilling systems, subsystems, equipment and/or component-related drawings, calculations and

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 7

5 New Technologies and Novel Concepts

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 8

i) A systematic process is to be applied to identify situations where a combination or sequence of

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 9

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 10

● Minimizing consequences of fire and explosions

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 11

Blind Rams: See "Rams"

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 12

Blind-shear Rams: See "Rams"

Blowout Preventer Equipment:

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 13

Certificate of Conformity (COC): A Certificate of Conformity issued by the attending Surveyor in

Control Stations: Spaces containing the following, as applicable:

● Radio or main navigation equipment

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 14

● Central process control rooms

Control Systems: An assembly of devices interconnected or coordinated to generate or convey the

Critical Component: Any structural/mechanical component in a Critical Load Path.

Crown: Upper section of the derrick.

Desander: Centrifugal device for removing sand from drilling fluid.

ABS GUIDE FOR THE CLASSIFICATION OF DRILLING SYSTEMS • 2021 15